Improving our Skewers
As of September 13, 2024 all Paragon Machine Works front and back 12 mm skewers (except for Syntace-compatible skewers due to their unique geometry) will include a brass split ring washer (SRW, SKU SK5001) installed on the inside face of the skewer. Its purpose is to reduce the galling of aluminum skewers on harder frame alloys such as titanium.
Has anything else changed about the Paragon Skewer?
Nothing has changed with the skewer design itself. The purpose of adding the SRW is to have a simple, sleek, and backwards compatible solution to the problem stated above. The SRW adds function without changing the aesthetic of the skewer. It does reduce the thread engagement of the skewer, but only by 1/3 - 2/3 of one rotation depending on the thread pitch. This will not affect the quality or safety of your ride.
What’s included in the purchase of a skewer moving forward?
Your skewer will come with a brass SRW fully integrated. We press the ring into place for you before shipment.
How does the SRW integrate and stay in place?
All our skewers are machined with a small groove on the inside face of the head, providing a mechanism for constraining unwanted axial motion of a washer. The SRW will spin freely when pressed into the groove but will not come off with any shaking or vibrations within the realm of normal use, wear, and tear.
Why brass?
We selected brass for our SRW because it has a low tendency to gall with most standard frame materials.
Do I need to use a SRW?
If you own a Paragon skewer and don’t have problems with galling, then you don’t need a SRW. If you would like to add a SRW they are available for individual sale on our website.
If you don’t want the SRW that has already been installed, removal is as easy as gently working your way around the split ring with a flat head or other thin object to disengage and remove it.
Caution!
Split ring washers of this thickness (.02”) are delicate and can bend easily if not handled properly. A slightly bent split ring will still function as normal with the skewer tightened but may make removal or replacement slightly more challenging. It can also lead to premature wear of the SRW itself.
How do I install or re-install the SRW myself?
Self-installation is easy:
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Place the SRW on the outside face of your dropout.
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Holding it in place, gently press the skewer through the SRW and 12 mm axle hole.
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Once the SRW is past the skewer threads, press the skewer through until it is flush with the SRW.
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Confirm it is locked in place by removing the skewer from the dropout and giving it a gentle shake with the threads facing the ground. If the SRW does not come off, you are fine to ride!
What is the torque spec with the SRW in place?
8-12 N-m
What does this mean for the future of Paragon Skewers?
We would love your feedback. Thicker? Thinner? What do you think of the aesthetic?
Please share your thoughts/comments by sending an email to orders@paragonmachineworks.com.