Bike complete wheels

Buying advice for: Bicycle wheels: Bike complete wheels

• Wheelset types

  Wheelsets are crucial components of a bicycle and vary depending on the intended use. The most common types are road wheelsets, mountain bike wheelsets and trekking wheelsets. Road wheelsets are optimised for speed and are characterised by narrow, aerodynamic rims and lightweight wheels. Mountain bike wheelsets are robust and designed for rough terrain, with wider rims and stronger spokes for added durability. Trekking wheelsets combine features of road and mountain bike wheelsets, ideal for long tours and mixed surfaces, often with reinforced rims and spokes for increased stability.

• Wheelset brands

  Well-known brands for wheelsets are Shimano, DT Swiss and Mavic. Shimano is a leading manufacturer that offers a wide range of wheelsets for different types of bikes, known for its reliability and innovation. DT Swiss, a Swiss manufacturer, is renowned for its high-quality wheelsets, which are used in many professional and hobby applications. Mavic, a French company, offers both road and mountain bike wheelsets and is known for its innovation and high quality workmanship.

• Materials and workmanship

  The materials and workmanship of a wheelset are crucial for performance and durability. High-quality wheelsets are often made of aluminium or carbon for the rims, with aluminium being known for its good balance between weight and strength, while carbon is used for maximum lightweight and stiffness properties. The hubs and spokes are often made of stainless steel or high-strength steel to ensure durability and stability. The finish should be precise to ensure an even rim surface and stable spokes, which is important for even rotation and a long service life.

• Technical features

  Important technical characteristics of a wheelset include the rim diameter, rim width and hub type. The rim diameter varies depending on the wheel type, typically between 700C for road bikes and 27.5 or 29 inches for mountain bikes. The rim width influences tyre width and stability; wider rims offer more stability and comfort. The type of hub can vary between quick-release and thru-axles, with thru-axles often providing better stability and strength.