CLIX: A Revolution In Quick Release Technology

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A few weeks ago I was contacted by CLIX Wheel Release Systems about doing a write up about their new quick release system.  I asked them to send me a demo and they actually sent me an entire RST fork and Shimano hub with the CLIX quick release already installed.  That was very unexpected.

So what is CLIX?

CLIX is a new twist on the tried and true quick release found holding the wheels on most bicycles these days.  In the end it accomplishes the same task but it does it in a slightly different way than you are probably used to.

What makes CLIX different?

The main difference is that it only takes one hand to use the CLIX system and you don’t have to spin the nut down on the other side.

Another advantage is that the quick release lever cannot be used as a giant wing nut.  Some inexperienced riders have been known to simply spin the lever around until the adjuster nut is tightened all the way in.  This totally defeats the purpose of the quickrealse.  This is also totally impossible with the CLIX system.

How does CLIX do it?

Basically the quick release lever has a larger throw.  This means that it pulls a lot farther than a standard quick release.  The CLIX system also only used single spring on the lever side and a spring cup that you squeeze with your fingers to release the wheel.  The adjuster nut is tightened one time when it is originally installed and then it never has to be adjusted again.

Does it really work?

I’ve messed around with it on the fork and hub they sent me but I haven’t mounted it on my mountain bike yet.  My initial impression is that it does work and it works very well.  I am looking forward to getting it installed on my bike.

They sent the fork because it takes a specific fork design that allows enough space for the cups.  This is a bit of a down side to the product.  If it simply worked with any standard fork on the market they could be selling these to any cyclist.  Right now they are only available as a factory installed component from specific bicycle manufacturers such as Cannondale, Trek, Koga Miyata, and Montague USA.

So stay tuned for follow up posts as I mount the fork and try it out on the trails.