The Ultimate Hub Showdown: DT Swiss 370 vs. 350

You can’t have a smooth ride without a reliable hub. That’s why choosing the right hub is essential, especially for mountain bikers who face a variety of terrains and conditions. 

In this article, we will be comparing the DT Swiss 370 vs. 350, two of the most popular hubs on the market.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, our goal is to help you understand the differences between these two hubs so that you can choose the best option for your riding style.

Overview of DT Swiss 370

The DT Swiss 370 hub works with rim brakes and has sealed cartridge bearings for smooth and consistent performance. It’s easy to install and comes with a lock ring.

How good is DT Swiss 370?

The DT Swiss 370 hub is a very well-constructed hub that uses sealed cartridge bearings for the front and a combination of sealed and cage needle bearings for the rear. 

It may be slightly heavier compared to other options and might not feature the DT Swiss Star Drive ratcheting system for the rear freewheeling mechanism. 

However, the hub is still considered to be high-quality and performs as well as or better than other similar hubs available in the market.

Are DT Swiss 370 hubs quiet?

Yes, the DT Swiss 370 hubs are known for their quiet operation, thanks to the sealed cartridge bearings and precision build.

Overview of DT Swiss 350

The DT Swiss 350 hub is a solidly built hub that uses sealed cartridge bearings in the front and a combination of sealed and cage needle bearings in the rear. It is a little heavier but it uses the DT Swiss Star Drive ratcheting (freewheeling) system, so it’s still far better than most. 

How good is DT Swiss 350?

The DT Swiss 350 is a great option for efficiency and reliability. It features a star ratchet system for quick engagement and smooth power transfer. 

With 36 points of engagement (POE), it offers a fast and responsive ride that’s ideal for technical terrain. Previously, the hub was available with an 18 POE star ratchet, but now it comes standard with the higher engagement option. 

Are DT Swiss 350 hubs quiet?

Yes, the DT Swiss 350 hubs are known for their quiet operation, thanks to the contact-free seals and precision build.

Quick Comparison Table: DT Swiss 370 Vs 350

Here’s a comparison table between both showing their key differences.

Factors	DT Swiss 350	DT Swiss 370
Hub Quality and Performance	Smooth and responsive ride, quicker power transfer.	Less smooth ride, slower engagement.
Hub Compatibility	Compatible with multiple cassette types including 11-speed road cassettes.	Features a threaded track cassette body.
Ease Of Maintenance	Easy to maintain.	Takes significantly more effort.
Noise Level	Very quiet.	Very quiet.

Detailed Comparison: DT Swiss 370 Vs 350

Here’s a more in-depth comparison of both. 

Hub Quality and Performance

Winner: DT Swiss 350

While the DT Swiss 370 is a solid performer, the DT Swiss 350 takes hub quality and performance to the next level.

The DT Swiss 350 features a star ratchet system with 36 points of engagement (POE), making it much more responsive than the 370. 

This enhanced engagement leads to smoother power transfer and improved acceleration, allowing for a more efficient and enjoyable ride.

Hub Compatibility

Winner: Tie (depends on the rider’s brake type and cassette compatibility needs)

The 370 employs a threaded track cassette body, while the 350 is compatible with Shimano/SRAM 8, 9, 10-speed cassettes, and 11-speed road cassettes.

If you have rim brakes, the DT Swiss 370 is the perfect option, while the DT Swiss 350 is designed for center-lock disc brakes, making it an ideal choice for those with disc brakes. 

Axle Types

Winner: DT Swiss 370 (for ease of finding replacement parts)

The DT Swiss 370 features a 10×1 threaded x 120mm rear axle, while the DT Swiss 350 uses a 12mm thru x 142mm rear axle. 

Additionally, the 370 has a traditional hub design, so it’s easier to find replacement parts for it. The 350’s newer design may make finding parts more challenging in some areas.

Noise Level

Winner: Tie

While the DT Swiss 370 uses a J-bend spoke interface, the DT Swiss 350 employs a straight-pull spoke interface. Both hubs operate quietly, making them an excellent choice for riders who prefer a low-noise ride.

DT Swiss 370 or 350: Which Bicycle Hub Is Best?

The DT Swiss 370 is a reliable and straightforward hub that is perfect for those who prefer a traditional setup. Its threaded track cassette housing and compatibility with rim brakes make it a great option. Additionally, it’s easier to find replacement parts for.

Meanwhile, DT Swiss 350 is an excellent choice if you want a hub that delivers a smooth and efficient ride. With its 36-point star ratchet system, the 350 is highly responsive and perfect for quick acceleration and efficient climbing. The 350 is built for center-lock disc brakes, making it ideal for riders who use disc brakes.

To conclude, the DT Swiss 370 is the best choice for simplicity and compatibility with rim brakes. While the DT Swiss 350 is the way to go if you want a high-performance hub that can handle any terrain and deliver a smoother ride.

FAQs

Final Thoughts: DT Swiss 370 Vs 350

Choosing between the DT Swiss 370 and the DT Swiss 350 can be a tough decision for mountain bikers. 

Both hubs offer excellent quality and performance, but the 370 is ideal for those who value simplicity and compatibility with rim brakes, while the 350 is perfect for riders who demand a smoother and more efficient ride with its star ratchet system and center-lock disc brake compatibility. 

No matter which hub you choose, make sure it fits your riding style and needs, so you can properly enjoy the ride.