Are you also trying to wrap your mind around spline drive and bolt drive BMX sprockets?
When it comes to choosing between one over the other, things can get a little confusing.
So, which one’s better?
That’s what I’m here to break down.
In this article, I’ll dive into the differences between spline drive and bolt drive BMX sprockets. I’ll also help you figure out which option might be best for your riding style.
But to make a long story short: I recommend you opt for the bolt drive version.
Performance, durability, ease of maintenance – it all matters when you’re deciding between these two.
But are they that different – or is the difference mainly in the design?
Let’s find out!
This post covers:
- Overview of bolt drive BMX sprockets
- Overview of spline drive BMX sprockets
- Head-to-head comparison: spline drive vs. bolt drive
- Conclusion: Which sprocket style is better?
Overview of Bolt Drive BMX Sprockets
Alright, let’s talk about bolt drive sprockets.
These are the more common you’ll find on most BMX bikes.
As the name suggests, they use a bolt to attach the sprocket to the crank arm. Pretty straightforward, right?
You’ve got a bolt holding things in place, so it’s easy to understand and work with.
Pros of Bolt Drive
First off, bolt drive sprockets are everywhere, which makes them super easy to find and replace.
If you want to swap out your sprocket, it’ll be extremely easy – most local (or online) shops will have what you need.
They’re also compatible with many different cranksets, making them versatile.
Plus, when it comes to installation and maintenance, bolt drive is a breeze. You just tighten or loosen the bolt and are good to go.
Cons of Bolt Drive
But it’s not all smooth sailing. The biggest downside is that the bolt can loosen over time, especially if you’re doing a lot of heavy riding or tricks.
Nobody wants to deal with a wobbly sprocket!
Pro tip: I use a little bit of nail polish on the thread to prevent it from getting loose.
And because of the extra hardware (like the bolt itself), bolt drive setups tend to be slightly heavier than their spline drive counterparts.
However, I wouldn’t really mind about that tiny weight difference.
In fact, according to the Profile’s comparison of spline drive and bolt drive sprockets, sizes 25T weigh exactly the same, 76g or 2.65oz.
Note: Get the best bolt drive sprockets HERE.
Overview of Spline Drive BMX Sprockets
Now spline drive sprockets!
These are a bit more specialized but are clean and simple.
Instead of using a bolt to attach the sprocket, spline drive sprockets slide directly onto the crank spindle using ridged grooves called splines.
So, no bolts are needed!
How cool does that sound?
The sprocket fits snugly onto the crank, making for a really solid connection. Plus, a more minimalist look.
Pros of Spline Drive
The best part about a spline drive sprocket is its clean design – there’s no bolt sticking out or hardware to mess with.
Also, you have nothing to lose.
This makes the setup look sleeker and gives fewer parts that could fail.
Because the sprocket locks onto the crank with those splines, it’s way less likely to loosen over time, which is a big win if you ride hard.
I’ve run S&M’s spline drive sprocket for years, and it hasn’t loosen a tiny bit.
Another bonus?
With fewer parts, spline drive setups are often a bit lighter. However, that’s not always the case.
Cons of Spline Drive
The most important thing to note is that spline drive sprockets require a compatible crankset, which means you can’t use them with any old cranks.
Not every crank has the splines needed for this type of sprocket, so you’ve got to make sure your parts match up.
Not only that, if you run 19mm crank spindle, you need to get the right size sprocket to fit on – there are no adapters or whatnot, like with the bolt drive sprocket.
The sprocket fits only one size crank spindle.
Also, since they’re not as common as bolt drive sprockets, they can be harder to find in stores or online.
So, while spline drive might be the more durable, streamlined option, it does require a little more planning with your setup.
Note: Get the best spline drive sprockets HERE.
Head-to-Head Comparison: Spline Drive vs. Bolt Drive
Let’s examine the details a little further to see which sprocket design might be better for your ride.
Category | Spline drive | Bolt drive |
Installation, compatibility | Requires splines on crankset, specific but easy if compatible | Simple, versatile, fits many cranksets |
Durability, performance | Stays locked in place | Bolt may loosen, requires periodic checks |
Weight | Lighter due to fewer parts | Slightly heavier due to extra hardware |
Maintenance | More complicated if parts need replacement | Easier to replace parts, just undo the bolt |
Cost | Usually more expensive, specialized parts | Cheaper & more common, easier to find |
1. Installation & Compatibility
When it comes to installation, bolt drive is the easier option.
You just bolt the sprocket onto the crank arm – simple, quick, and you’re good to go. Plus, bolt drive sprockets are super versatile, fitting with a wide range of cranksets.
On the other hand, spline drive requires that your crankset has splines to fit the sprocket, so it’s a little more specific.
If your cranks are compatible, though, installation is just a matter of sliding them on; no bolts are required.
Remember to grease the crank spindle for easier installation.
What I noticed with my S&M spline drive sprocket is that after some time of riding it, it was a real pain in the ass to slide it off the spindle.
This is why I never get a spline drive sprocket again.
2. Durability & Performance
This is where spline drive shines.
It tends to stay locked in place without a bolt to loosen, making it more reliable.
It’s great for riders who go hard and want a setup that won’t wobble or loosen over time.
Bolt drive works well too, but you may need to check the bolt periodically. (Hint: use nail polish!)
3. Weight Considerations
Spline drive generally takes the win here.
Fewer parts mean less weight, and if you’re trying to shave off every gram for performance, this matters.
Bolt drive is a bit heavier, but it’s only a tiny difference unless you’re super weight-conscious.
4. Maintenance
In terms of maintenance, bolt drive is easier.
Much easier!
If you need to swap out a sprocket, it’s just a matter of undoing the bolt.
With a spline drive, you have to make sure your crank and sprocket are compatible, which can be a hassle if you ever need to replace one or the other.
And if you ride it for a long time – sliding it off, as I mentioned earlier, can be an afternoon project.
5. Cost
Bolt drive is usually cheaper, partly because it’s more common and doesn’t require a special steel insert to match the 48mm splines.
You can find bolt drive sprockets just about anywhere, often at lower prices.
Because they’re more specialized, spline drive sprockets tend to cost a bit more.
Conclusion: Which Is Better?
So, which is better — spline drive or bolt drive?
Honestly, it really depends on what kind of rider you are and what you’re looking for in your BMX setup.
Let’s break it down one last time.
Spline Drive:
- Pros: Super clean design, no bolts to worry about, lighter, and stays locked in place.
- Cons: Requires compatible cranks, can be harder to find, and usually costs a bit more.
Bolt Drive:
- Pros: Easy to install, maintain, and replace, more versatile, and generally cheaper.
- Cons: The bolt can loosen over time and is slightly heavier due to extra hardware.
At the end of the day, choosing the best BMX sprocket comes down to you — your riding style, your bike setup, and what you value most (ease of maintenance, durability, or weight).
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer here, and that’s the beauty of BMX: you get to customize your ride to fit your needs.
However, I recommend you avoid complicating things and just go with the bolt drive BMX sprocket.
You’ll thank yourself later.
Further reading:
- Best Guard BMX Sprockets
- Best 25T BMX Sprockets
- Best 28T BMX Sprockets
- Best 30T BMX Sprockets
- What BMX Sprocket Size Is Best?