V1 axles with pressfit end caps have been discontinued. All V1 hubs should upgrade to V1.2 axles which feature an adjustable preload system using a threaded axle and a threaded C-clamp for setting the preload.

To upgrade V1 hubs, please use our drill guide and a V1.2 axle with the appropriate freehub body.

Note: Shimano (HG) freehubs must be used with a matching rear axle, SRAM (XDR) freehubs must be used with a matching rear axle, Campagnolo (N3W) and Shimano (Microspline) freehubs must be used with a matching rear axle.

Campagnolo (N3W) and Shimano (Microspline) use the same axle. Microspline freehubs will be available starting Q3 2026.

You cannot use an XDR freehub with an HG axle or vice versa. This will not work and will likely not fit in the frame.

Setting the preload is necessary before first ride, and is required for optimal performance. If the wheel seems to not roll smoothly, loosen your preload. Through axle torque should not exceed 8NM. If there is play in the system, tighten your preload.

Setting Perfect Preload:

For all V1.2 and V2 hubs with threaded axles and preload collars.  Best performed with the bike in a stand or on the ground with bike upside down.

Note: 

-Preload collar is located under the centerlock rotor splines.  Do not install your rotor until preload is set.

-Preload collar is initially set such that the hubs can be assembled onto rims.  It is not necessarily set optimally for your particular through-axle torque or bicycle configuration.  You must check and adjust preload before initially riding your wheels.

How to set Perfect Preload

  1. Loosen the set screw on the preload collar using a T10 Torx driver, accessing it through the hole in the centerlock splines.
    1. If you have a V1 hub that is not drilled for V1.2/V2 axles, you must obtain a Tactic drill guide and drill this hole using a 16 Gauge drill bit with the axle removed.
  2. Unscrew the preload collar slightly (2-3 turns).
  3. Install the wheel in your bike frame and tighten the through-axle to the frame-manufacturers recommended torque.
  4. Check that the preload collar is still loose and not making contact with the non-drive side hub bearing.
  5. Slowly tighten the preload collar until it hits the non-drive side hub bearing, and then back it off ⅛ of a turn.
  6. The goal is for zero lateral play in the wheel and zero drag.  If the wheel starts to slow down or feels noticeable drag, back the preload collar off and additional ⅛ to ¼ of a turn.  If there is lateral play, carefully tighten the preload collar slowly.
  7. Once the wheel spins freely but shows zero lateral play, you have matched the hub preload to the through-axle torque.  Tighten the T10 set screw to lock the preload collar in place. 
  8. Remove the wheel from the frame, install the brake rotor, and reinstall the wheel on the bike frame.
  9. Check for rotor alignment and adjust the brake caliper as needed so there is no rotor rub.
  10. Check one final time for zero-drag freespin and ensure there is no lateral play.
  11. Ride your bike.

For questions, please contact info@tacticracing.com