Knob Magazine

When Shimano partnered with manufacturers like Chris King and Fox to deploy a new 15mm thru axle standard it seemed only a matter of time until the traditional quick release was sent packing.  After a recent patent filing we can probably expect a rear 15mm thru axle system from Shimano by the fall of 2010.

It almost goes without saying that thru axle technology had to be on its way sooner than later.  Not only does the technology bring greater security, (your wheel doesn’t fall out immediately upon the lever opening) but a greater degree of stiffness as well.  Such a design will give engineers considerably more leeway to design stiffer and lighter swing-arms.

From the looks of the illustrations, the entire system looks like it may end up lighter than a standard QR setup by virtue of the axle and skewer being integrated into one piece.  Of course this would mean that Shimano is prepared to give up on loose bearings and make the switch to cartridge as I couldn’t imagine them making the system work any other way.

The obvious downside of this technology is yet another standard that makes essential parts bike specific.  You can bet if Shimano plans on brining out a 15mm thru axle specific to some frames another manufacturer will bring out a 12mm specific to others.  Shimano has avoided partnerships with frame manufactuerers in the past, but it seems like those days are coming to an end.   Now we just wait to see who will be first to debut the technology.  My guess is Yeti, Iron Horse or GT.