Sidekick Wheels

Pedal kickback degrades suspension performance even when you can't feel it. Chain tension from suspension movement pulls against the pedals, robbing traction and adding fatigue. Sidekick is the award-winning hub that fully disconnects the drivetrain while coasting, eliminating kickback at the source rather than just damping it. Pinkbike named it Innovation of the Year, calling it "the most elegant take on chain-force mitigation we've seen to date."

But Sidekick does more than eliminate kickback. Traditional hubs create drag and noise when coasting. Sidekick's pawls disengage completely, so the hub spins like a front wheel with zero resistance. You carry more speed through rough sections without losing momentum. And instead of the angry-bee ratchet of a conventional freehub, you hear your tires and the trail. Riders consistently call the silence one of their favorite features.

The Design & Innovation Award recognized Sidekick for delivering "noticeably more responsive suspension, fewer vibrations, and significantly reduced rider fatigue." BikeRadar found it made "a marked difference to suspension performance" with "seemingly more time to think about your lines and body position." MBR said it feels "like riding chainless" with the rear wheel tracking better under braking.

Adjustable deadband lets you tune engagement to your bike and riding style: 12°, 15°, or 18°. Tool-free service means anyone can rebuild the hub in minutes without specialized equipment.

Grappler Flux rims pair low-profile sections with high-modulus carbon or 6069 aluminum for radial compliance without sacrificing lateral stiffness. Testpilot tested the combination and concluded, "You will be safer, faster, and more relaxed on the bike."

Sylvan Sidekick wheels use an asymmetric 30mm rim for balanced spoke tension and a lighter build suited to trail and all-mountain riding. Grappler Sidekick Flux wheels come in Enduro and DH configurations, with 28 or 32 spokes, in carbon or alloy, and in Boost or Super Boost. Class 1 E-MTB compatible.

World Cup proven. Lifetime carbon rim warranty.