With Torch the hub axle was internally relieved so it only contacted sections of the frame’s thru-axle which can create stress risers and reduce stiffness (does shed grams).
With Hydra the frame’s thru-axle contacts the whole ID of the hub axle. So while the axle has a smaller OD (to accommodate larger bearings w/ smaller IDs) it should be stiffer and stronger.
I had a really good experience with Torch hubs (even with having to replace drive side hub shell bearing) but Hydra just seems like a next generation premium product in every way.
Dec. 18, 2019, 2:37 p.m. - Andrew Major
With Torch the hub axle was internally relieved so it only contacted sections of the frame’s thru-axle which can create stress risers and reduce stiffness (does shed grams). With Hydra the frame’s thru-axle contacts the whole ID of the hub axle. So while the axle has a smaller OD (to accommodate larger bearings w/ smaller IDs) it should be stiffer and stronger. I had a really good experience with Torch hubs (even with having to replace drive side hub shell bearing) but Hydra just seems like a next generation premium product in every way.