Läpiakselit

Läpiakselit refers to a Finnish term that translates to "through-axles" or "thru-axles" in English. This component is a type of axle used in bicycles, particularly in modern mountain bikes and some road bikes, that passes entirely through the hub of the wheel. Unlike traditional quick-release skewers which are narrower and typically have a cam-lever mechanism, thru-axles are threaded and secured by screwing into a threaded insert in the frame or fork.

The primary advantage of thru-axles is their increased stiffness and security. By providing a more robust connection between the wheel and the frame, they improve steering precision and braking performance, especially under demanding conditions. This enhanced rigidity also helps to prevent wheel flex, which can be beneficial for suspension performance and overall bike handling.

Thru-axles are typically larger in diameter than quick-release skewers, commonly 12mm, 15mm, or even 20mm for mountain bikes, and 12mm for road bikes. The threading allows for a precise and secure tightening of the wheel, eliminating the possibility of the wheel coming loose unintentionally, a concern that can arise with quick-release systems. While they require a tool, usually a hex wrench, to remove or install, this is generally considered a minor inconvenience for the performance benefits they offer. The adoption of thru-axles has become a standard feature on most new mid-range to high-end bicycles due to their superior functionality.