ALTA Freewheel 16T x 1/8” LM08 Chrome Single Speed 1.37x24 TPI 8-Key BMX Cruiser Track Flip Flop.
ALTA is a trusted aftermarket brand specializing in BMX, cruiser, and single-speed components.
Known for affordable, durable, rider-friendly parts designed for easy installation and broad compatibility.
ALTA freewheels are widely used in entry to mid-level BMX freestyle setups, flip-flop hubs, and single-speed cruiser builds.
The LM08 designation is ALTA’s catalog code for this 16-tooth, 8-key freewheel.
The “08” indicates the 8-notch removal interface, ensuring easy servicing with a standard freewheel tool.
LM models are part of ALTA’s standard threaded freewheel line, ranging across different tooth counts.
8-Key (8-Notch) Design:
The outer body has 8 notches for tool engagement.
Compatible with 8-notch freewheel removal tools — a common tool in bike shops.
More secure grip than 2-notch versions, reducing slippage during removal.
Thread-On Freewheel:
Self-contained ratchet mechanism (pawls + bearings + teeth all inside).
Screws directly onto hub threads (no need for driver or cassette body).
Common on BMX, cruiser, and track flip-flop hubs.
Designed for single-speed bikes only.
No shifting or multi-gear cassette compatibility.
Simplicity = less maintenance, lighter weight, and higher strength, especially for BMX or heavy-duty cruising.
16 teeth provide a versatile balance between acceleration and cruising speed.
Popular for flip-flop hubs since it’s not too “tall” like 14T and not too “easy” like 18–20T.
Works well with common front chainrings (42T–46T), giving smooth ratios:
44T x 16T ≈ 2.75:1 → Good balance for BMX, cruisers, and single-speed road.
46T x 16T ≈ 2.88:1 → Faster cruising (track/urban riding).
42T x 16T ≈ 2.63:1 → Slightly easier pedaling (commuter, casual).
Built to accept 1/8” single-speed chains, the strongest and widest common chain size.
Standard on BMX, cruisers, fixed gear, and track bikes.
Not compatible with 3/32” chains (used for geared road and MTB drivetrains).
The most common international standard for freewheel hubs.
Used on BMX hubs, track hubs, flip-flop hubs, and most single-speed cruisers.
Ensures easy replacement with broad aftermarket compatibility.
Note: Some hubs (like ALTA LM00 14T) use M30 x 1mm threading — not interchangeable. Buyers must check hub thread size.
Polished chrome finish gives a clean, reflective look.
Resistant to rust, scratching, and corrosion.
Matches silver/chrome builds (classic BMX, cruisers) but also blends well with modern black hubs.
Easier to maintain appearance with simple wipe-downs.
High-Tensile Steel: Strong enough to handle BMX tricks, jumps, and daily commuting torque.
Chrome Plating: Extra layer of corrosion protection.
Hardened Teeth: Resists wear from heavy chains.
Bearing System: Cup-and-cone with ball bearings inside the freewheel body.
Provides smooth ratcheting.
Low-cost service/replacement compared to sealed units.
Install:
Grease hub threads lightly.
Hand-thread to avoid cross-threading.
Tightens automatically with pedaling torque.
Remove:
Requires 8-notch freewheel remover tool + wrench/vice.
More secure than 2-notch removal systems.
BMX Bikes: Entry to mid-level freestyle, street, park BMX with threaded hubs.
Track Bikes: Flip-flop hubs (use on freewheel side).
Fixie / Single-Speed Road Bikes: Flip-flop hubs with freewheel threading.
Cruisers: Beach cruisers, choppers, utility bikes using 1/8” chains.
Commuter Single-Speeds: City/urban bikes converted to single gear.
BMX: Mongoose, Haro, GT, Schwinn, Diamondback, Eastern, Huffy, Kent, Magna.
Track / Fixie: State Bicycle Co., Pure Cycles, 6KU, Retrospec, Windsor/Mercier.
Cruisers: Electra, Micargi, Firmstrong, Schwinn Cruisers, Huffy Beach Cruisers.
16T gear size = comfortable all-around ratio.
1/8” chain fit = maximum strength for BMX/track use.
Chrome finish = durability and style.
8-key design = easy removal, reliable servicing.
English thread = widest possible hub compatibility.
✔ Fits flip-flop hubs (freewheel side) and threaded single-speed hubs.
✔ Works with 1/8” chains only.
❌ Not compatible with cassette hubs (drivers needed).
❌ Not for multi-speed drivetrains (narrow chains & freehubs).
⚠️ Always check your hub thread type: must be 1.37” x 24 TPI.