LIG+taper thru axle bolt on
rear thru axle santa cruz high tower
thru axle rock strike with red X through photo
rear thru axle gravel bike

Lightning Bolt-on Axle – Rear 12 mm x 162-167 mm x 1.0 Thread

(46 customer reviews)

$ 48.00

After years of mountain biking with thru-axles with bulky handles that seemed to strike every trailside obstacle we needed a better option.

Our Lightning Bolt-On thru axles offer the highest quality, simple, lightweight alternative to that bulky handle. Available in a range of sizes that fit both front and rear wheels on all types of thru-axle equipped bikes.

In stock

Get 20% Off Lightning Bolt-on Axles With Purchase of Any Trailer or Trainer Axle! Discount Automatically Applied.
SKU: LIG603 Category:

Description

  • Lightning is Better. Our front and rear Lightning Bolt-On axles offer a stronger, more durable, lower profile and lighter weight option to replace your stock thru-axles.
  • Low Profile. No more bulky handles to strike trail obstacles. Aerodynamic design.
  • Light Weight. Our axles are internally bored to remove unnecessary material without compromising strength.
  • Easy to install. Our matching front and rear Lightning Bolt-On Axles only require a standard 6 mm hex wrench for easy installation and removal.
  • Better Tolerances. Manufactured in the USA to the tightest tolerances using aerospace materials and CNC manufacturing. No longer will your axle loosen while riding.
  • Available Security. Compatible with Hexlox bike security systems.

This is NOT an axle for attaching trailers or trainers. Please see below for “also fits your bike” if that is what you are seeking.

 

Specification

  • The diameter of this axle is 12 mm and the true length of the axle shaft is 167 mm. This axle comes with a tapered X-12 spacer to make the axle length 162 mm. Please note: Thru-axle lengths do not equal hub standards. An axle has to be longer than the hub to fit in the frame. A 12×142 hub does not equal a 142 mm long axle.
  • This axle has a 1.0 mm thread pitch.
  • Weight: 42 grams
  • The axle is precision CNC machined in the USA from 7075 aluminum and hard anodized for rugged durability. Our axles are built to the tightest standards in the industry.
  • No special tools required. Design allows for installation or wheel removal using your standard 6mm hex wrench.
  • Designed, built and quality tested in the USA. Proven around the world.
  • Compatible with Hexlox security systems.

Support

Need more information about how our axles work?

46 reviews for Lightning Bolt-on Axle – Rear 12 mm x 162-167 mm x 1.0 Thread

  1. Steve Williams (verified owner) –

    I was looking for a replacement rear axle without the usual quick release handle, decided on the Robert Plant and couldn’t be happier, top quality build and finish. Website selects the correct part for your bike after entering your bike details so no chance of ordering the wrong part.

    • Katy –

      Steve,
      Thanks for the nice review and the full belly laugh. “Robert Plant” was already taken, so was “Alan Parson’s Project”. Yep, we’re basically the best of what was left. A great reminder to never take one’s self too seriously. Love it! Happy riding!

  2. Larsey (verified owner) –

    Great quality and fit. Fast shipping. Reasonable pricing. I was so glad to see the move in Mountain Bikes from road quick releases to Thru-Axles. I really like eliminating the lever for this Bolt-On

  3. Bill (verified owner) –

    Been waiting some time for this solution and finding one that fits my santa cruz is great. I like that the allen key dosen’t go all the way through so one can push on it to engage the treads on the opposite side of the frame. Sweet!

  4. Derrick M. (verified owner) –

    Ordered simply to match the axle that I ordered and installed on the front of the bike. Beautiful, US machined, piece of equipment.

  5. Brian Nunn (verified owner) –

    Absolutely the lightest and best. My go to for racing!

  6. Jim Counce (verified owner) –

    Ordering was quick and easy with the axle finder, shipping was fast and I am very happy. I had problems with the quick release lever opening and this replacement axle hasn’t slopped at all.

  7. John (verified owner) –

    After reviewing a respectable number of thru axle options, I decided on the Robert Plant (don’t think any relation to THE Robert Plant from Led Zepplin) road bike axles. The ordering process was simple and convenient, and delivery brilliant. The axles are a perfect fit and satisfy my zeal to find quality parts that are also light, yet durable.

  8. Dave (verified owner) –

    Perfect upgrade to my 2019 Cannondale Synapse. I also love the back story of the Robert Axle Project and always like to support small companies.

  9. Pat B (verified owner) –

    Awesome quality, very light. Allows for repeatable torque every time compared to the clamp style axles. Highly recommend.

  10. Christopher (verified owner) –

    First off, great name for a company; doesn’t really roll off the tongue, or that easy to remember, but Robert Axle Project could have been the name of a third-tier prog band from the mid 70’s (and aside from Sensations Fix and Henry Cow, weren’t they all?). Easy to find a perfect match on the first attempt. Perfect fit. Expertly machined. Light. Secure. Clean look. I’ve double checked them a few times just like I do anything else on my bike, but I don’t expect any issues. The Chris King partnership was announced literally days after my order, and I was tempted to order a colored set instead, but the brushed silver of the standard pair look really great without adding any unnecessary bling or cost. These axles are perfect and should be stock on any bike.

  11. Brian Emerson –

    Awesome products!
    Thanks RAP! The fit and finish is exceptional!
    They look cool too!
    Eliminating the quick release is so much cleaner and less damage!
    The King colab”
    is awesome too for some color bling!
    Easy install.Stay nice and tight using torque wrench!?
    And thanks for the socks!

  12. Thomas (verified owner) –

    Go this as a replacement for the rear on my Lynskey GR270 and I am happy I did. I was hesitant on getting a bolt on over getting a DT Swiss type because I like the convenience of being able to quickly remove that wheel for the trainer or wheel swaps. At this point – I don’t care. The RAP axle has tightened up the rear more than any other axle I’ve ever had – I’m more than pleased. If there was one thing I would like though, it would be to have a pop-in lever instead of having to use a tool.

  13. Marc St-Jean (verified owner) –

    Perfect fit, light and easy to install.

  14. Dennis Romero (verified owner) –

    Extremely satisfied with your product, perfect fit and quick installation. I couldn’t wait to 86 that quick release rear axle on my Santa Cruz MegaTower CC. Everyone knows that bling on your bike makes it go faster just sitting there. Being computer illiterate, your website was easy to navigate with your “thru axle finder” is spot on. I’m glad that I found your product and will definitely brag about it at the races and out on trails.

  15. Keith (verified owner) –

    I am really happy with my new axles for my Cannondale Topstone. The axle finder is a game changer and makes life way easier to find the correct options. I am very happy with the quality of the product and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a better look than factory axles with their goofy handles.

  16. Greg (verified owner) –

    Works perfectly and replaces my shite Lynskey QR thru axle. Thanks!

  17. JP (verified owner) –

    After a nightmare few weeks trying and failing to find a replacement for the Axle that my son lost on the side of the road, I discovered Robert Axle Project, I chatted with the lady on line who was really helpful especially as we were desperate as we were leaving for a biking weekend 2 days later. I placed my order and as promised, she looked it out and shipped it to me overnight. Perfect fit and awesome service. Would highly recommend to all my biking friends.

  18. Jeffrey –

    I ordered a product called the chain keeper from a cycling shop, took it home and what a piece of junk that was. After looking at u tube videos i came across the drive thru from the RAP . What a piece of art work that is, simple, well made and quality throughout. Great to know it’s made in the USA. Love supporting small businesses!

  19. Jim (verified owner) –

    Excellent replacement rear axle for my gravel bike. Great finish and overall quality.

    My only suggestion would be to make these in a color other than black, preferably something bright and visible, like blaze orange. Finding black-colored parts in objects like a car trunk, kit bag, or parts drawer, or dropped on the ground when you have to do a field repair, is nearly impossible.

  20. Dan (verified owner) –

    The axle finder was a useful tool in ensuring I ordered the correct axle, in addition the staff from RAP responded letting me know I had the correct axle ordered, the craftsmanship and aesthetics of the axle is obvious , crisp and sharp finish , high precision construction , and once installed the axle quietly does its job , stealth style axles provide confidence when riding in narrow and hazard filled areas that can destroy a standard lever style axle. Therefore, the axle provides a sense of security because of the design and it emanates a look that I appreciate at the rear of the bike , clean and tidy! Great job RAP.

  21. Roger Katz (verified owner) –

    Excellent tools and chat online to ensure I got the right part. Quick shipment. Easy to follow instructions. Excellent part. I would not hesitate to get more axels from Robert Axle Project in the future. The reviews I read are right–this is a high quality operation that knows their stuff!

  22. Brian Taylor (verified owner) –

    Just added disc specific pannier racks to the back of my Cannondale Topstone for a spring bike packing trip. The bottom mounting screws for the rack wouldn’t allow the handle on the original axle to turn. This axle took care of that.

  23. smitchbaby (verified owner) –

    Really nice axle. Looks great. Very solid and sleek. Beautifully machined. Won’t be catching anymore branches in the quick release anymore. That’s for sure. If only you could do something about the derailleur side. And make a purple axle to go with the rest of my purple bling. Besides these minor qualms, with the Hexlox, no one’s ever gonna steal my wheels. So thanks Robert Axle! Good job! And I mean it!

  24. Tobias (verified owner) –

    Excellent service. Super fast shipment!
    Perfect fit axles.
    Happy camper 👍!

  25. Scott (verified owner) –

    Nicely machined product with excellent–nearly dummyproof–selection process. My cycling buddies were discussing the other day which direction the QR lever should point, and I observed that the better sort of cyclist would never have that sort of thing hanging off the side of their bike in the first place. They were chastened, and I suspect will be placing a RAP order soon.

  26. Joe Fahey (verified owner) –

    Perfect match for my 2020 Lynskey GR300. Looks fantastic, and more importantly, it works flawlessly. Shipping was fast and easy.

  27. Mark Smith (verified owner) –

    Replaced the QR Style axles on my Lynskey Pro-GR with a set of appropriate Robert Axle Project axles. Much much better than the stock axles. Highly recommend

  28. Garry Segerman –

    Wanted an axle that wasn’t a quick release. Works great. Now if could remember to put my multitool away after using I would feel better.

    Great strong axles

  29. Angel –

    I just want to upgrade my Santa Cruz Tallboy TA and this was the best option, fit perfectly and beautifully machined.
    Save some grams and be stylish.

  30. Cube Driver –

    While I totally appreciate the service itself: (a) Offering a broad range of axles (supply situation in Europe is currently like 4-month-waiting time) and (b) super fast delivery (not more than a week to Europe! Wow!

    There’s one point that you should keep in mind before buying: “All axles are compatible +/- 2 mm in length.”

    That’s what I’m facing now: The axle is a little too short, even more than 2mm. Removing the ring works, but that’ll probably damage the frame. So I guess I’ll have to wait for the actual spare part coming from Cube.

    Still worth 4 out of 5 points.

  31. Ken Gordon (verified owner) –

    The lever on my OEM thru axle was hitting the mounting arm of my rear rack. It was a Sirius problem. With my frame’s conical receptor, Step by Step I looked everywhere for a replacement axle but couldn’t find anything. Even my LBS could only offer Psychobabble for advice.

    But the Eye in the Sky must have been looking out for me, because somehow I found The Robert Axle Project. My new thru axle fits the bike perfectly, as if they’re made for each other like two Children of the Moon. The wheel turns so smoothly it’s just Silence and I on the trail. And the axle’s outstanding craftsmanship is obvious to The Naked Eye. If you want to survive on the trails to become Old and Wise, be sure to pick up this axle. Otherwise You’re Gonna Get Your Fingers Burned!

  32. Mike H (verified owner) –

    Easy to look up, fast shipping and good price. Will definitely buy from Robert axle project again!

  33. John (verified owner) –

    I replaced my OEM levered thru axles on my 2019 Synapse with this selection as recommended by the on line drop down Q&A and it fit perfectly. I could not be happier.

  34. Jon (verified owner) –

    Fantastic product! This was a perfect replacement for my DT Swiss TA on a 2017 SC Tallboy. Lighter, cleaner look, and love that I can torque it to a spec. Keep up the great work Robert Axle Project!

  35. ben (verified owner) –

    Bought this Rear Axle and a Lightning Bolt-on Axle – Front 12 mm 130mm with 1.5 Thread for my Gravel Bike. My front axle had a Quick Release lever on it that kept coming lose when the trail got rough and I wanted my front axle and rear axle to match 😀 (like a weirdo).

    I found this rear axle to be a bit too long for my bike but thankfully the front axle came with a spacer, which I didn’t need on the front, so I’ve added it to the rear and it evens out the sides nicely (prevents it from sticking out the one side really far).

    Overall I am really happy with this product and am happy that I found out about this company. I like that there is the base axle and then the additional pieces to add or remove length to customize it more for your frame’s specific needs.

  36. Mark Braden (verified owner) –

    Didn’t care for the DT Swiss through axle with the QR handle that came on my SC Chameleon. It kept hitting things on the trail and didn’t want to seem to stay tight. Switched to this Lightning Bolt-On axle recently and it is much cleaner looking and I haven’t had to mess with it once. Shipping was quick and the axle selection tool is a nice feature to make sure you’re getting the right parts. Would definitely recommend grabbing one of these if you’re in the market.

  37. Joe Drumsta (verified owner) –

    I purchased a Lynskey GR300 gravel bike and the front and rear thru axles/quick releases that came stock with the HED Emporium gravel wheels were just poorly designed IMO. An absolute nightmare to work. Nothing “quick” about them. I found The Robert Axle Project on youtube when another lynskey owner had the same issue. I purchased the front and rear replacement axles for my wheelset and I am extremely pleased with the quality and simplicity of these axles. I don’t care about the need for an allen key since I ride a gravel bike and carry a multi tool anyway. These are perfection and they look really cool! Thank You!

  38. Bryce (verified owner) –

    Super duper fit and finish. Robert makes excellent quality axles, and the folks who work there are top-notch human beings!

  39. Dan Meadows (verified owner) –

    I’ve been using this axle for 4 months now, and it has held up perfectly to a pretty intense Colorado winter. As for purchasing and installing the product, the instructions were clear, the ordering was easy, and the shipping was fast. Great company, great product.

  40. Sean –

    Perfect, replaced the rear axle on my 21 sc tallboy. Amazing how such a small thing can make it look that much better. Loved the axle finder on the website. Love the small company vibe

  41. Justin Tonel –

    I’ve ridden my stock axles for less than a year and they’ve not lasted until I bought these. I love my Lynskey Pro GR more with your product. Thanks!

  42. Ben –

    works perfectly with my Lynskey r500. Thanks you.

  43. RL –

    Very light and über strong. Works fantastic on my Lynskey GR300.

  44. Mark Schenkel (verified owner) –

    I bought a pair of RAP axles to replace the stock QR thru axles on my new Lynskey PRO GR and couldn’t be happier. The stock thru axles had different mechanisms, front and rear, and we’re very difficult to get properly adjusted. Consequently, I was always dealing with creaking and disc brake rub. Not anymore! Thank you, Robert Axle Project!

  45. Tom Paden (verified owner) –

    After eff-ing up the stock axle on my Specialized Diverge (ft-lbs are NOT the same as in-lbs), I discovered RAP. Used their online Axle Finder to find a replacement, and placed an order. Installed it easily, and I’m back biking! Thanks RAP!

  46. daniel wren (verified owner) –

    Fantastic replacement for my Lynskey gravel bike. just raced them in a very difficult event in WA state Grit Tenaaway Epic Race.
    Grat finish fantastic looking and great service. Thanks, and finishing # overall was a great break in on the bike . GR300 thanks

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