WRP CentreHub: Letting the Chainring Move Without Pulling the Pedals

By MTBSA contributor

Williams Racing Products is developing a Bi-Directional CentreHub that allows the chainring to rotate independently of the cranks while coasting. The goal is to reduce chain feedback at the pedals without adding the engagement delay normally associated with extra rotational freedom.

More than pedal kickback

A chain can pull at the crank through oscillation over rough ground, even when suspension-driven pedal kickback is not the main issue. WRP’s concept lets the chainring turn both forwards and backwards during coasting, accommodating changes in the amount of chain needed along its upper run.

That movement is intended to isolate the rider’s feet from those forces. WRP claims almost immediate drive engagement when pedalling resumes. Those claims need durability and riding validation; MTBSA has not independently measured them.

How the mechanism works

The design uses a bi-directional dual-ratchet clutch. A central ring can move axially between the neighbouring ratchet surfaces. During coasting, a spring separates the drive interface, allowing chainring movement without forcing the crank to follow.

Forward pedalling moves the ratchet into engagement so torque can pass from the pedals to the chainring. The concept works with a conventional freehub. Shifting without pedalling is a separate possible arrangement that would require the cassette to rotate with the rear wheel; it is not automatic with a standard freehub setup.

What it does not settle

Freedom at the chainring during coasting does not remove every drivetrain influence while pedalling. A high-pivot bike without an idler could still have substantial anti-squat and reduced bump sensitivity under power. The device should not be treated as proof that any suspension layout can dispense with its existing chain-routing design.

Development status

The October report describes ongoing durability work. The demonstration mechanism was unsealed for visibility, while the proposed production version is intended to use labyrinth seals. Initial compatibility is planned around Shimano cranks.

No confirmed production price or South African supply was established in the supplied material. Local riders should regard this as an engineering development story, with final compatibility, service needs and availability still to be confirmed.

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