Among the features of Chris King's road-specific R45 hubs was the promise of Campagnolo compatibility afforded by the slightly smaller 17mm-diameter axle – and that day has finally arrived. Chris King will offer complete hubs and separate freehub bodies to fit the Italian cassette standard beginning January 2012.
Also new for the R45 range is a ceramic bearing option to go along with the ceramic bottom bracket announced last month. Other features of the R45 are unchanged for 2012, including the 102/221g claimed front/rear weights (ceramic bearing equipped versions are 3-5g lighter).
The lower-friction 45-tooth RingDrive internal mechanism and bearing seals remain, along with 20/24/28/32-hole drilling options, a five-year warranty, and your choice of 10 anodized colors. Just as before, R45 hubs will continue to be manufactured in Chris King's Portland, Oregon facility.