Mavic Boost 12x148 rear wheel adapter

Boost 148 adapter: optimize your Mavic rear wheel compatibility

If you're passionate about MTB or trail riding, you've likely heard of the Boost 148 mm standard. Now a must-have on modern bikes, this standard sometimes requires a Boost 148 adapter to ensure compatibility between your rear hub and your bike frame. Let’s take a closer look at a small component with a big impact: the Mavic Boost 148 mm rear wheel adapter.

What is a Boost 148 adapter ?

A Boost 148 adapter is a mechanical part designed to widen the spacing of a rear wheel hub to fit a bike frame that follows the Boost standard. In practical terms, it converts a 142 mm axle spacing to 148 mm—adding 6 mm. The goal? To improve wheel alignment, offer increased stiffness, and enhance the overall bike handling, especially on technical terrain.

Why use a Mavic Boost 148 mm adapter ?

Mavic, a legendary French brand in the cycling world, is well known for its high-end, durable wheelsets. However, not all of their rear wheels come Boost-ready. A Boost 148 adapter becomes essential when you need to:

• Adapt a non-Boost Mavic rear wheel to a Boost 148 mm frame

• Avoid buying a new wheel by making your current setup compatible

• Maintain optimal drivetrain alignment, especially for the derailleur and cassette

• Ensure proper spoke tension and better lateral stiffness

Key features of a Mavic Boost 148 mm rear wheel adapter

Here are the most common technical specifications:

• Compatibility: Mavic wheels with ITS-4, ID360, or FTS-L hub systems (depending on the model)

• Material: CNC-machined aluminum, both lightweight and durable

• Kit contents: Hub spacers + brake rotor spacer (usually includes 6 bolts)

• Installation: Quick and easy, no need to fully disassemble the wheel

• Weight: Around 20–30 grams—negligible compared to the performance gain

Installation and practical tips

Installing a Boost 148 adapter on a Mavic rear wheel usually involves a few simple steps:

1. Remove the thru-axle and take the wheel off the frame

2. Install the spacers on both sides of the rear hub

3. Add the rotor spacer to correct for lateral offset

4. Reinstall the brake rotor using the supplied bolts

5. Refit the wheel and adjust the derailleur if needed

Pro tip: Always check your frame clearance, brake rotor alignment, and cassette position to avoid misalignment.

Benefits of a Boost 148 adapter for Mavic rear wheels

• Universal compatibility with many modern frames

• Cost-effective by upgrading your current wheel instead of replacing it

• Improved rear wheel stability, especially in tight corners or on steep descents

• Fast installation, no special tools required

Final thoughts

The Boost 148 adapter is a smart solution for cyclists looking to fit a Mavic rear wheel to a modern Boost frame without sacrificing performance. This compact component helps align your wheel, frame, and drivetrain, while extending the life of your current gear. Whether you ride downhill, cross-country, or enduro, this small upgrade can make a big difference.