Wheel blocks and quick releases

How a cam lock works

A quick release consists of a threaded rod that goes through the hollow axle of the hub, a adjustable nut on one side, and a cam lever on the other. Closing the lever pulls the rod and clamps the fork or frame drops between two notched surfaces: the wheel is tightened without a key, and it can be released in a few seconds to fix a flat or fit the bike in a boot. The principle was developed by Italian Tullio Campagnolo, who patented it in 1930. It is still used on most rim brake bikes and many city bikes.

Other wheel parts

Wheels also come in:

• Through axles.
• Hubs.
• Bearings.
• End caps.
• Rims.
• Freehub.

All wheels are gathered on the wheels page.

Front, rear, and trailer length

The length of the rod depends on the spacing between the drops. At the front, quick release forks measure one hundred millimetres between the drops. At the rear, the spacing increases to one hundred thirty millimetres on most road bikes and one hundred thirty-five on mountain bikes, city bikes, and many touring bikes. The P2R trailer lock adds extra length to accommodate the attachment of a child or cargo trailer between the drop and the lever. A lock that is too short doesn't thread enough into the nut; too long, it protrudes and risks catching.

Adjusting tension and orienting the lever

A loosely tightened lock is a common cause of a wheel moving out of position or even coming off. With the lever open, tighten the opposite nut until it makes contact, then close it: the lever should start to resist halfway and finish with a firm effort, leaving a mark in the palm. Never turn the lever like a butterfly to tighten it. Once closed, it should orient towards the back, or along the fork at the front, to avoid catching on a branch. On a fork, the notched drops hold the wheel if the lock loosens: they should never be filed down.

Good deals

Good deals can also be found in good plans, promotions, clearance, sales, Black Friday. The new arrivals showcase the latest collections, and items shipped within 24 hours are prepared and dispatched in 24 hours. The major events of the year follow a stable order: Black Friday in late autumn, the holiday season, winter sales, French Days in spring, then summer sales and back to school.

Frequently asked questions

Are there anti-theft wheel locks?

Yes, anti-theft locks replace the lever with a head that can only be unscrewed with a coded key or specific tool. They prevent wheel theft in the city, albeit at the cost of a less quick removal in case of a flat.

Should a quick release be greased?

A drop of grease on the threads and a drop of oil on the cam ensures a regular tightening and prevents seizing. The notched surfaces should remain clean and dry to grip the drops well.

When should a quick release be replaced?

Replace it if the rod is bent, if the threads are damaged, or if the cam turns with play. A lock that no longer holds its tension despite adjusting the nut should not be kept.

Can you put a quick release on an electric bike?

Yes, if the frame and fork have open drops designed for it. However, with a motor in the rear hub, the wheel is secured with nuts, as the motor's torque requires a stronger tightening.

Why is my wheel rubbing after reassembly?

It is likely not seated properly against the drops. Loosen the lock, place the bike on its wheels so its weight centres the axle, then close the lever: the brake should no longer rub.