Originally Posted by
Dave Mayer
Thru-axles are not axles, they are simply wheel retention devices. The true axle is in the hub, the definition of an axle being something that does not rotate, around which the wheel bearings in the hub rotate.
Thru-axles were developed to idiot proof wheel retention, as through decades of rider mis-application, it was apparent to the industry that many bike users could not use a QR. Discs, and their propensity to create forces that eject wheels, was a further impetus for this solution.
A properly used quick release applies more clamping force than from the the twiddling one generates using the stubby thru-axle lever. In terms of overall hub 'stiffness', if the alu thru-axle is being counted on to augment the 'stiffness' and strength of the actual hub axle, then the hub axle is improperly designed and implemented. Again, the thru-axle is simply a wheel retention device.
As per the previous poster, what would be the purpose of a bike front-end that is really really stiff? Disc brake forks, because of the increased forces generated with disc brakes relative to rim brakes, need to be stronger, stiffer and less compliant than before. So if you now have discs, your bike front end should be 'stiffer' than a rim brake equivalent. Which is not always be a good thing.
I saw a video some time back that made essentially the same case. It was detailed and convincing.
i think the primary advantage of thru axles is:
1. Disc brake locations cause a reaction force that tends to pull the wheel down and out of the dropout. Through axles, that screw into a closed surface on one side, make that no longer possible.
2. Seating in the absolute center of the fork is crucial with discs, less so with rim brakes. Through axles make the seating more precise and repeatable.
On the downside and as someone who takes his front wheel off often … they are a PITA.
Do they affect the ride? I don’t see how that is possible.