Two versions of Suzue's hub models are so visually similar that they are frequently the source of confusion.
- Suzue "Pro Max" (photo above) is sometimes referred to as the NJS model since those with 36 holes are certified for professional keirin racing. (These hubs are available in 28, 32 and 36 hole drilling options, but actual keirin certification is restricted to those with 36 spokes [to any manufacturer, not just Suzue]). The rear hub is threaded on both sides to accept a track cog and lockring (fixed/fixed, lockrings not included). They use a standard (for premium hubs) 9x1mm axle in the front and 10x1mm axle in the rear. Flange diameter at spoke hole centers: 67mm. The hub bearings are a traditional cone/cup/ball design. This is a high quality hub that merits serious consideration to serve as the foundation for many high-performance wheels.
- Suzue "Pro Max-SB" (photo below) shares a similar hubshell design and graphics trim as its more sophisticated counterpart described in the section above, but incorporates some compromises in axle, bearing and fastener quality that allow it to sell at a lower price point. The Pro Max-SB differs in that it is fitted with sealed bearings (hence the "SB"), and the rear hub is configured to mount a track cog and lockring on one side, threaded for a single-speed freewheel on the other (fixed/free). The axle threading standard for the Pro Max-SB is 3/8"x26tpi for both the front and rear. Flange diameter at spoke hole centers: 67mm. This hub model is sometimes designated as the "Deluxe" model by some vendors for reasons I cannot fathom - it is clearly not the best hub in Suzue's line.
SIL-SP
At the bottom of Suzue's lineup of track models is the "SIL-SP" model (variously referred to as "Standard"; "Economy"; "Eco"; "Junior"; "Basic" and maybe a few other aliases). Axle threading is 3/8"x26tpi for the rear and 5/16"x26tpi for the front. Flange diameter at spoke hole centers: 62.5mm. Rear SIL-SP hubs have been offered in various configurations over time but they are now most often seen double-sided to mount a track cog and lockring on one side and a single-speed freewheel on the other (fixed/free). These hubs have the virtue of being dirt cheap and seductively photogenic (see below), but bearing quality is somehat coarse (gets better with some use and service). Caveat emptor.
|
