The DT Swiss 54t Star Ratchet Kit swaps the two ratchets in a DT Swiss Ratchet System rear hub for 54 tooth versions, which brings the engagement angle down to 6.7 degrees.

What it's for

Engagement angle is how far the cranks turn before the freehub catches and drives the wheel. A smaller angle means the bike responds sooner when you start pedaling, which helps on technical climbs and when you need a quick half pedal stroke to clear an obstacle. DT Swiss offers the 54t kit for riders who want that quicker pickup, and also as a replacement for worn ratchets.

How it works

Star ratchets: Two toothed rings face each other inside the freehub and are pushed together by springs. All the teeth engage at once, which spreads the load over a large contact area.

Engagement angle: DT Swiss calculates it as 360 degrees divided by the number of engagement points. 54 teeth gives 6.7 degrees. 36 teeth gives 10 degrees and 18 teeth gives 20 degrees.

Two springs: The original Ratchet System uses two conical springs, one behind each ratchet. That is the system this kit is for.

Compatibility

• Fits: DT Swiss rear hubs with the original Ratchet System (two loose ratchets and two springs)
• Does not fit: Ratchet EXP hubs, which use one loose ratchet and one spring and have their own kits. Does not fit Ratchet DEG or pawl hubs.
• How to check yours: Enter your hub or wheel ID on DT Swiss Product Support to see which freehub system it has. Or pull the freehub body off by hand: two loose ratchets and two springs means Ratchet System.

Setup and installation

• No tools: DT Swiss Ratchet System hubs come apart by hand. Pull the end cap and freehub body, lift out the old ratchets and springs, and fit the new ones.
• Grease: use the grease supplied in the kit on the ratchets.

In the box

• 2 star ratchets, 54 tooth
• 2 springs
• DT Swiss grease