Best Pawl Kits for 2024

Hey! If you're thinking about installing the DT Swiss Ratchet LN Conversion Kit on your 3-Pawl hub, you're looking at a pretty nice upgrade. This kit transforms your hub from a pawl-based system to the DT Swiss Ratchet System, which is well-liked for its even force distribution and enhanced reliability. It's a popular choice for models like the 370 hubs, especially among mountain bike enthusiasts aiming for better performance. Before diving in, you'll want to have the right tools on hand. According to the manufacturer's product description, you'll need the [HBDT835 Ratchet ring nut tool](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dhbdt835%2Bratchet%2Bring%2Bnut%2Btool%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) and the [HBDT5266 Pawl ring nut tool](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dhbdt5266%2Bpawl%2Bring%2Bnut%2Btool%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20). These are specifically designed for the conversion process, which can be a bit technical. Depending on your comfort level with bike maintenance, you might also consider seeking help from a qualified mechanic to make sure it's done right. Also, our research suggests that removing the existing pawl mechanism can be a bit tough. It might take some elbow grease or special tools. So, if you're not up for the task yourself, having a local bike shop do the conversion could be a good idea. Sure, it'll cost a bit, but it ensures everything is done precisely and without any hiccups. On the performance side, the switch to the Ratchet LN system is widely appreciated. Many have noted the increased reliability and durability over traditional pawl hubs. Plus, you can customize your ride with the system's option to upgrade to 36 or 54 tooth ratchets, which some riders really love. One thing to keep in mind is the cost factor. Aside from the conversion kit, you'll also need to invest in those tools, which can add up. Some folks even think about just going for a new hub altogether. But many find the improved ride quality worth the investment. So, if you're ready for a bit of a challenge or don't mind paying a pro, the DT Swiss Ratchet LN Conversion Kit can really boost your biking experience.

The DT Swiss Ratchet LN Conversion Kit comes with an 18-tooth ratchet as standard. It's designed to upgrade [DT Swiss 3-pawl hubs](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DDT%2BSwiss%2B3-pawl%2Bhubs%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), like those in the [370 models](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3D370%2Bmodels%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), into a more reliable DT Ratchet freehub system. Our research shows that switching to this star ratchet system noticeably boosts performance compared to traditional pawl systems thanks to larger, evenly spread engagement surfaces, making for a smoother ride. If you're looking to tailor things further, you can upgrade to [36 tooth ratchet units](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3D36%2Btooth%2Bratchet%2Bunits%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) or [54 tooth ratchet units](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3D54%2Btooth%2Bratchet%2Bunits%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), but keep in mind these are sold separately. More teeth generally mean quicker engagement, which can be really handy in tricky terrains. Still, the standard 18-tooth setup is pretty reliable on its own, according to our findings. Just a heads up: while you can easily maintain and adjust the conversion without extra tools mid-ride, the initial setup does require specific tools. The manufacturer mentions needing the [HBDT835 Ratchet ring nut tool](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DHBDT835%2BRatchet%2Bring%2Bnut%2Btool%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) and [HBDT5266 Pawl ringnut tool](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DHBDT5266%2BPawl%2Bringnut%2Btool%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) for installation. It might be a good idea to get a professional mechanic to handle this part to make sure everything's installed right. Our research shows that folks generally feel content with the performance boost this kit offers, especially when switching from 3-pawl hubs. There's a noticeable uptick in cycling efficiency and reliability. But be aware that some have pointed out the cost of additional tools and parts as a potential downside. In the end, though the initial investment might seem steep, the DT Swiss Ratchet LN Conversion Kit is a solid upgrade for those who want to take their cycling experience up a notch without changing out the whole wheel or hub. Particularly for serious cyclists navigating tough conditions, transforming a 3-pawl hub into a high-performing star ratchet system might well be worth the cost.

So, if you're weighing the [DT Swiss Ratchet LN system](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Ddt%2Bs%2Bratchet%2Bln%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) against the usual [3-pawl hubs](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3D3-pawl%2Bhubs%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), the biggest thing to know is how they differ in engagement and on-trail performance. Especially if your rides take you over rough terrain, these differences can really matter. **How They Engage**: The Ratchet LN system from DT Swiss has a reputation for more reliable engagement than [3-pawl hubs](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3D3-pawl%2Bhubs%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) do. In a [3-pawl](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3D3-pawl%2Bhubs%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) setup, the pawls engage at specific points, which can sometimes cause missed engagements—a pain when you're on technical trails. Meanwhile, the Ratchet LN locks all the teeth simultaneously and spreads the force out evenly. Basically, this means you get smoother power transfer, and it wears out less quickly over time. According to how the manufacturer describes it, you can choose from 18, 36, or 54 engagement points, depending on what suits your riding style best. **Reliability and Durability**: From what we've found, the Ratchet system seems to be a step up in terms of reliability and longevity. People who've tried it often say it feels "much better than the [3-pawl setups](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3D3-pawl%2Bhubs%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) or really any pawl system." The even force distribution helps reduce stress on the hub, leading to less mechanical trouble and longer-lasting components. **Installation**: Converting your hub to the Ratchet LN system can be a bit complex. DT Swiss suggests using specific tools like the HBDT835 and HBDT5266 for taking the old system out and putting in the new one. While some folks manage to do it themselves just fine, it might be worth considering professional help to steer clear of potential errors and extra costs. **Cost Considerations**: Making the switch to a Ratchet LN is not just about the conversion kit price, which is around $100 to $115. If you're going for professional installation or need the tools, the price can climb. You might end up spending over $200, especially if you go for more teeth options like the 36T or 54T, which aren't included in the basic kit. **Is It Worth It?**: If you're someone who loves precision and reliability and often rides technical trails, going for the DT Swiss Ratchet LN Conversion Kit could really up your game. The initial expense might be steeper than sticking with what you have, but many folks find the boost in responsiveness and confidence worth it when tackling those tricky courses. In the end, whether to switch from a [3-pawl](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3D3-pawl%2Bhubs%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) to a Ratchet LN really boils down to your riding needs and what you're willing to spend. For many dedicated cyclists, the potential improvement in the ride makes it a choice worth considering.