Slick and slender optimised generator is built for off-road speed
Revealed at Eurobike, the SON 29 S could be the sleekest and most compact dynamo hub out there.
SON already enjoys a reputation for compact and powerful generator hubs, with its highly regarded SON 28.
But the SON 29 S could be mistaken for an oversized, straight-pull flanged hub, taking compact power generation to a whole new level.
A smaller hub shell
The 29 S has a smaller-diameter hub shell and casing than SON’s other hubs.
The 29 S sits behind a six-bolt disc brake rotor mount. It contains a new generator assembly that despite its compact size meets the standard performance values expected of a dynamo hub.
SON claims intelligent charging electronics deliver the high levels of power required from a dynamo hub.
The company says the 29 S meets the current StVZO requirements for a 29-inch wheel dynamo hub.
The same power levers as the SON 28
SON says the 29 S has similar performance figures to its 28 hub, thanks to reworking the system parameters.
The new slender hub provides the same power levers, but at the (relatively) lower speeds of off-road riding.
The hub itself is designed around straight-pull hub flanges, which optimises the stiffness and robustness of a wheel build, according to SON.
The 29 S has SON’s Coaxial port on the flange of the non-disc side of the hub.
The new 29 S should be available later this summer, priced at €549 (international pricing TBC).
With 24- and 32-spoke options and a claimed weight of 410g, we expect to see the 29 S built onto plenty of high-end custom gravel bikes and bikepacking rigs in the not-too-distant future.
SON Ladelux light
SON also had its new Ladelux headlight on display at Eurobike. It says the Ladelux is similar to the SON Edelux II, but it adds a buffer battery that will help keep the headlight on even when you stop pedalling.
The charging electronic and the buffer battery are integrated into the Ladelux’s housing and can draw 12 watts from the dynamo hub.
The light has a high beam of 180 lux and a low beam of 120 lux.
The Ladelux also comes with a handlebar switch with a magnetic connector to charge external devices, such as a smartphone, even when the light is on.
SON says the Ladelux will be available this summer and will cost €479.