The guys over at Twisted send us a box of goodies recently, loaded with products to check out. One of the standout products was the Cook Bros Ghostworks “Needle Bearing” disc hub. The BMX racing world is always looking for an edge, whether it’s lighter frames, stiffer forks, or faster rolling wheels. Cook Bros Racing introduced their Ghostworks hub range, offering racers a choice of three different engagement systems: Ratchet, Sprag, and the unique Needle Clutch option.

While most BMX racers are familiar with traditional ratchet-style cassette hubs, the silent Needle Clutch version stands out as something a little different. Instead of relying on pawls and ratchets, the hub uses a needle clutch mechanism that delivers instant engagement when power is applied. According to Cook Bros Racing, the system is designed to provide immediate drive while reducing friction as the hub breaks-in over time.

For BMX racers, that instant engagement can be particularly appealing, where every pedal stroke counts. The design also eliminates many of the moving parts found in a traditional pawl-driven hub, creating a unique feel that riders will either love or be intrigued to try.

The Ghostworks Needle hub features a 36-hole shell with equal spoke lengths on both the drive and non-drive sides, simplifying wheel builds while promoting balanced spoke tension. The hub is compatible with 20mm, 15mm, and 10mm axle configurations and uses the Onyx-style spline interface for cogs.

At 499 grams, the Needle version sits between the lighter Ratchet model and the slightly heavier Sprag option. All three Ghostworks hubs share the same 110mm axle width and ABEC 5 bearing specification.

Cook Bros Racing has a long history of producing innovative bicycle components, and the Ghostworks project continues that tradition by bringing clutch-based hub technology into BMX racing. While sprag clutches have gained attention in recent years thanks to brands like Onyx, the Needle Clutch option gives racers another alternative when searching for the perfect combination of engagement, efficiency, and ride feel.

As hub technology continues to evolve, it’s refreshing to see companies exploring new approaches rather than simply increasing engagement points. Whether the Needle Clutch becomes the next big thing in BMX racing remains to be seen, but it’s certainly one of the more interesting hub designs currently available to racers looking for something different.

Manufacturer’s Description

Featuring

• 36 spoke holes (Same spoke length on drive & non-drive side)
• Instant engagement needle clutch with decreasing friction after the break in period
• 20mm adjustable length axle (INCLUDED)
• Fits Onyx SS splines cogs (not compatible with Shimano) (16t INCLUDED)
• Bearing: ABEC5 (Drive side 1.5 x 45deg headset style bearing)
• 110mm Axle width
• Weight: 499g (excludes axle and cog)

Want to know more?

Check them out at twistedco.au/products/cook-bros-racing-ghostworks-rear-hub