The Sidekick Hub works using a unique freehub mechanism with three primary pawls that engage a toothed ratchet to drive the hub shell forward, much like traditional hubs. However, in the Sidekick Hub, these pawls are held in a disengaged position during coasting. When you start pedaling, a patent-pending* ‘pawl pusher’ lifts the pawls into position, engaging the ratchet. The pusher acts as a ramp, allowing the pawls to slide up and engage as the freehub body rotates.

This pawl pusher is mounted on the hub axle and is controlled by a fourth, low-force timing pawl that remains in contact with the ratchet. As pedaling begins, the pusher moves through a preset deadband before engaging the pawls.

While coasting, the pusher can rotate freely in one direction (counter-clockwise) but is timed precisely to the ratchet in the other direction (clockwise). The freehub body moves a specific distance relative to the pusher before the pawls engage, a movement we refer to as the deadband. This deadband absorbs chain tension from suspension movement, effectively eliminating pedal kickback.

Unlike other kickback prevention systems, the Sidekick Hub allows suspension motion to continue unhindered during deadband travel, with no spring resisting the movement. This ensures that the suspension performs naturally, with no negative feedback.

Another benefit is reduced drag. Since the primary pawls only engage when pedaling, rather than constantly ratcheting over the ring, the system operates more quietly and with less friction, leading to quicker acceleration and faster coasting speeds.

*US20240157728A1 Hub system, method and device with adjustable deadband