Bike wheel: materials, types, sizes and lifespan

Materials of bike wheels

Bike wheels are made from materials such as carbon fiber for lightweight and high-performance, aluminum for a balance of weight, durability, and affordability, and sometimes steel for added strength, with carbon wheels being preferred for competitive cycling and aluminum wheels being popular for a wide range of cycling disciplines.

What are bike wheels made of?

Bike wheels are made of various materials, with rims typically constructed from aluminum or carbon fiber for lightweight and durability, spokes usually made from stainless steel or sometimes aluminum for strength and flexibility, and hubs often crafted from aluminum or steel for durability and smooth rotation. These materials are chosen to provide a balance of weight, strength, and performance, ensuring the wheels can handle different riding conditions and loads.

Carbon bike wheel

Carbon bike wheels are highly valued for their exceptional lightweight and aerodynamic properties, providing superior performance and speed advantages in competitive cycling, with carbon fiber rims offering enhanced stiffness and responsiveness compared to traditional materials, though they come at a higher cost and require careful handling.

Aluminum bike wheel

Aluminum bike wheels are popular for their balance of lightweight, durability, and affordability, offering good performance and reliability for a wide range of cycling disciplines, with aluminum rims providing excellent strength and resilience at a more accessible price point compared to carbon wheels.

Carbon vs aluminum bike wheel

Here’s a comparison between carbon and aluminum bike wheels, highlighting key differences in price, weight, stiffness, upgrade potential, performance, lifespan, and strength.

Bike wheel diagram

Below is a basic bike wheel diagram with main wheel parts name.

Bike wheel parts names

Bike wheel parts include the rim, spokes, hub, nipples, axle, and bearings.

1. Rim: The outer part of the wheel that holds the tire and provides the braking surface for rim brakes.
2. Spokes: Thin rods that connect the hub to the rim, distributing weight and maintaining wheel shape.
3. Hub: The central part of the wheel that houses the axle and bearings, allowing the wheel to spin smoothly.
4. Nipples: Small threaded components that secure the spokes to the rim and allow for tension adjustments.
5. Axle: The shaft that passes through the hub, connecting the wheel to the bike frame or fork.
6. Bearings: Small balls or cartridges inside the hub that reduce friction and enable smooth wheel rotation.

Types of bike wheels

The types of bike wheels include quick-release bike wheels, thru-axle bike wheels, road bike wheels, gravel bike wheels, mountain bike wheels, fat bike wheels, electric bike wheels, BMX bike wheels, and fixie bike wheels, each designed to meet specific riding conditions and performance needs.

1. Quick-Release Bike Wheel: Features a lever mechanism for easy wheel removal and installation without tools.
2. Thru-Axle Bike Wheel: Uses a thicker axle that threads directly into the frame or fork for increased stiffness and security.
3. Road Bike Wheel: Lightweight and aerodynamic, designed for speed and efficiency on paved surfaces.
4. Gravel Bike Wheel: Versatile and durable, suitable for mixed terrains including gravel and dirt paths.
5. Mountain Bike Wheel: Strong and resilient, built to handle rough off-road trails and impacts.
6. Fat Bike Wheel: Extra-wide rims and tires for increased traction and stability on soft surfaces like snow and sand.
7. Electric Bike Wheel: Designed to support the additional weight and power of an electric motor and battery.
8. BMX Bike Wheel: Compact and sturdy, built to withstand the impacts of tricks, stunts, and racing on BMX tracks.
9. Fixie Bike Wheel: Simplified design for fixed-gear riding, often featuring a flip-flop hub for single-speed use.

Quick-release bike wheel

Quick-release bike wheels are designed with a lever mechanism that allows for easy and tool-free removal and installation of the wheel by simply flipping the lever open or closed. This design makes it special for its convenience and speed, commonly used in road bikes and older mountain bikes for quick maintenance and transport.

Thru-axle bike wheel

Thru-axle bike wheels are designed with a thicker, solid axle that threads directly into the frame or fork, providing increased stiffness and security compared to quick-release systems. This design makes them special for their enhanced stability and precise wheel alignment, commonly used in modern mountain bikes, gravel bikes, and high-performance road bikes.

Road bike wheel

Road bike wheels are designed to be lightweight and aerodynamic, featuring narrow rims and smooth tires to minimize rolling resistance and maximize speed on paved surfaces. This design makes them special for their efficiency and performance in road cycling, commonly used in racing, touring, and recreational road biking.

Road bike wheel differences

Road bike wheels come in various types and sizes, each offering unique advantages and suited for different riding styles and conditions.

Road bike wheels are tailored to specific needs, with clinchers being the most common and easiest to maintain, tubulars preferred for professional racing due to their lightweight nature, tubeless offering improved performance and flat resistance, 700c being the standard size for road bikes, and 650b providing a smaller option for better handling on mixed terrains.

Gravel bike wheel

Gravel bike wheels are designed to handle a mix of terrains, featuring wider rims and tires for better traction and stability on gravel, dirt paths, and rough roads. This design makes them special for their versatility and durability, commonly used in gravel riding, bikepacking, and mixed-terrain adventures.

Mountain bike wheel

Mountain bike wheels are built to withstand the rigors of off-road riding, featuring wider rims and tires with aggressive tread patterns for enhanced grip and durability on rough terrains. This design makes them special for their ability to handle rocky trails, roots, and technical descents, commonly used in cross-country, trail, and downhill mountain biking.

Mountain bike wheel differences

Mountain bike wheels come in various types and sizes, each tailored to specific riding styles and conditions, offering unique advantages in performance and compatibility.

Mountain bike wheels vary in design and features, with tubeless ready offering flat resistance and improved traction, 29er wheels providing excellent rollover ability, 27.5er wheels delivering agile handling, 29er Boost wheels adding stiffness and strength for aggressive riding, and 27.5+ wheels enhancing traction and comfort on technical trails.

Fat bike wheel

Fat bike wheels are designed to accommodate extra-wide tires, typically 3.8 inches or more, to provide maximum traction and stability on soft surfaces like snow, sand, and mud. This design makes them special for their ability to float over loose terrain, commonly used in extreme off-road conditions and winter biking.

Electric bike wheel

Electric bike wheels are engineered to support the additional weight and torque of an electric motor and battery, often featuring reinforced rims and spokes. This design makes them special for their durability and ability to handle higher speeds and loads, commonly used in commuter and mountain e-bikes.

BMX bike wheel

BMX bike wheels are compact and sturdy, designed with smaller diameters (typically 20 inches) and thicker rims to withstand the impacts of jumps, tricks, and stunts. This design makes them special for their robustness and agility, commonly used in BMX racing and freestyle riding.

Fixie bike wheel

Fixie bike wheels are designed for fixed-gear bikes, featuring a flip-flop hub that allows switching between fixed-gear and single-speed setups. This design makes them special for their simplicity and efficiency, commonly used in urban commuting and track cycling.

How to measure bike wheel size?

To measure bike wheel size, follow these steps:

1. Determine Wheel Diameter: Remove the wheel from the bike and measure the diameter of the tire from one edge to the other, passing through the center, to get the overall wheel size, typically measured in inches or millimeters (e.g., 26″, 27.5″, 29″) or millimeters for road bikes (e.g., 700c)..
2. Measure the Rim Diameter: Remove the tire from the rim and measure the bead seat diameter (BSD) from one bead seat to the opposite bead seat, which is the part where the tire sits, usually given in millimeters(e.g., 622mm for 700c rims).
3. Determine Tire Width: Measure the width of the tire at its widest point to understand the tire’s thickness, which is crucial for ensuring proper fit and performance, typically noted in millimeters or inches(e.g., 23mm, 2.1″).
4. Check the ISO/E.T.R.T.O. Size: Look for the ISO (International Organization for Standardization) or E.T.R.T.O. (European Tire and Rim Technical Organization) size marking on the tire sidewall, which combines the tire width and bead seat diameter to provide a standardized measurement for compatibility(e.g., 25-622 for a 25mm wide tire on a 622mm rim).
5. Confirm Hub and Axle Size: Measure the diameter of the axle using a caliper (e.g., 9mm for quick-release, 12mm or 15mm for thru-axle) and the hub width between the outer ends where it fits into the frame or fork, ensuring compatibility with your bike’s frame(e.g., 100mm front hub, 135mm rear hub).
6. Consult Manufacturer Specifications: Refer to the bike or wheel manufacturer’s specifications to verify the precise measurements and compatibility details for accurate replacements or upgrades.

Bike wheel diameter chart

Bike wheel diameter varies from different types as listed below.

Bike wheel geometry

Bike wheel geometry refers to the shape, size, and arrangement of the wheel components, including the rim, spokes, and hub, which affects the bike’s handling, stability, and performance; it matters because proper geometry ensures optimal contact with the ground, efficient power transfer, and precise control, working by balancing the forces exerted on the wheel during riding.

How to find out the wheel size on a bike?

To find out the wheel size on a bike, check the sidewall of the tire for markings indicating the size (e.g., 700c, 27.5″), refer to the bike’s manual or manufacturer‘s website, use online resources like sizing charts, or consult your local bike shop for accurate information and recommendations.

What is the 700c bike wheel size?

The 700c bike wheel size refers to a wheel with a nominal diameter of 700 millimeters, originally derived from the French system of tire sizing that dates back to the early 20th century. It is called “700c” because “700” denotes the nominal outer diameter of the tire in millimeters, and “c” indicates a specific width category in the original French classification system. The 700c size is predominantly used for road bikes, cyclocross bikes, and some hybrid bikes, providing a balance of speed, efficiency, and comfort on paved surfaces.

What is 650b bike wheel size?

The 650b bike wheel size refers to a wheel with a nominal diameter of 650 millimeters, originating from the French tire sizing system used since the early 20th century. It is called “650b” because “650” denotes the nominal outer diameter of the tire in millimeters, and “b” indicates a specific width category in the French classification system. The 650b size is commonly used for gravel bikes, touring bikes, and some mountain bikes, providing a balance of agility, comfort, and improved traction on mixed and rough terrains.

What is mountain bike wheel size?

The mountain bike wheel size refers to the standard wheel diameters used for mountain biking, primarily 26 inches, 27.5 inches (650b), and 29 inches (700c), originating from the early development of mountain bikes in the 1970s and 1980s. These sizes are called as such because they were adapted from existing road and hybrid bike standards to suit off-road conditions. Mountain bike wheels are designed to provide durability, stability, and traction on rough and uneven terrain, with 26 inches offering nimbleness, 27.5 inches providing a balance of agility and speed, and 29 inches enhancing rollover ability and momentum.

Are all road bike wheels the same size?

No, not all road bike wheels are the same size because road bikes can use different wheel diameters and widths to suit various riding styles and conditions. The most common size is 700c, which has a nominal diameter of 622 millimeters, but some road bikes, especially smaller frames or certain endurance models, may use 650b wheels, which have a nominal diameter of 584 millimeters, to provide better handling and comfort.

Are bike wheels interchangeable?

No, bike wheels are not always interchangeable because different bikes have varying specifications such as axle types (quick-release vs. thru-axle), hub widths, wheel sizes (e.g., 26″, 27.5″, 29″, 700c), and brake types (rim brakes vs. disc brakes) that need to match the frame and fork of the bike to ensure proper fit and functionality.

Are front and rear bike wheels the same?

No, front and rear bike wheels are not the same because they have different designs and specifications to accommodate their distinct roles; the rear wheel is typically stronger to handle the rider’s weight and power transfer, often featuring a cassette or freewheel hub for gearing, while the front wheel is designed primarily for steering and may have a simpler hub setup without gears.

Can I change the wheel size on my bike?

Yes, you can change the wheel size on your bike because many frames and forks can accommodate different sizes within certain limits, but you must ensure compatibility with brake systems, axle standards, and frame clearance to maintain proper handling and safety.

Can I put gravel wheels on my road bike?

Yes, you can put gravel wheels on your road bike because they often have similar hub and axle standards, but you must ensure that your frame and fork have enough clearance for the wider tires typically used on gravel wheels to avoid any fitment issues or interference with the brakes.

Can I put mountain bike wheels on the hybrid?

Yes, you can put mountain bike wheels on a hybrid bike because they often share similar hub standards and axle sizes, but you must ensure that the frame and fork have enough clearance for the wider tires and that the brake systems are compatible, especially if the mountain bike wheels have disc brakes and your hybrid uses rim brakes.

Can I put road wheels on a mountain bike?

Yes, you can put road wheels on a mountain bike if the hub and axle standards match, and the frame and fork have clearance for the narrower tires, but you must ensure the brake systems are compatible, particularly if your mountain bike uses disc brakes and the road wheels have rim brakes.

Are bigger bike wheels faster?

No, bigger bike wheels are not inherently faster because speed depends on various factors such as tire width, rolling resistance, and terrain, but larger wheels, like 29ers, can maintain momentum better and roll over obstacles more smoothly, which can make them faster in certain conditions such as on rough or uneven terrain.

How long do bike wheels last?

Bike wheels typically last between 10,000 to 15,000 miles (16,000 to 24,000 kilometers) depending on usage, maintenance, and riding conditions, because factors such as the brake surface wear, material quality, and impacts from rough terrain can affect their longevity. Regular inspection and maintenance, like checking for spoke tension, rim wear, and hub condition, can help extend the lifespan of bike wheels.

How long do road bike wheels last?

Road bike wheels typically last between 15,000 to 20,000 miles (24,000 to 32,000 kilometers) due to their lighter use on smoother surfaces, but this lifespan can be influenced by factors such as the quality of the materials, brake surface wear, and maintenance practices. Regularly inspecting the rims for wear, especially if using rim brakes, checking spoke tension, and maintaining the hubs can help maximize the longevity of road bike wheels.

How long do mountain bike wheels last?

Mountain bike wheels typically last between 3,000 to 6,000 miles (4,800 to 9,600 kilometers) because they endure more stress and impacts from rough terrain, which can lead to faster wear and damage to rims, hubs, and spokes. Regular maintenance, such as checking for dents, ensuring proper spoke tension, and servicing the hubs, is essential to prolong the lifespan of mountain bike wheels.

Are quick release bike wheels safe?

Yes, quick release bike wheels are safe if they are properly installed and secured, as they provide convenient and reliable attachment for most riding conditions, but improper use or failure to fully engage the mechanism can lead to wheel instability and potential accidents.

Are thru axle bike wheels safe?

Yes, thru axle bike wheels are safe if they are correctly installed and tightened, as they provide increased stiffness and security compared to quick release systems, but improper installation or failure to fully tighten the axle can lead to instability and potential safety issues.

Bike wheel protection

Bike wheel protection involves using rim protectors, tire liners, and proper tire pressure to guard against impacts, punctures, and wear. Pay attention to regular maintenance, such as checking spoke tension and inspecting for damage, to ensure longevity and optimal performance, as these measures help prevent costly repairs and maintain the wheel’s integrity.

Do aluminum bike wheels wear out?

Yes, aluminum bike wheels wear out if they are subjected to regular use and adverse conditions, as the brake surface can gradually erode and the material can fatigue over time, but proper maintenance and avoiding harsh impacts can extend their lifespan.

Do carbon bike wheels wear out?

Yes, carbon bike wheels wear out if they are subjected to repeated stress, impacts, and environmental factors, as the resin and carbon fibers can degrade over time, but with proper care and avoiding severe impacts, their lifespan can be extended.

Can a cracked bike wheel be repaired?

Yes, a cracked bike wheel can be repaired if the damage is minor and located in a non-critical area, typically using professional methods such as carbon fiber patching for carbon wheels or welding for aluminum wheels, but severe cracks, especially in load-bearing areas, often necessitate full replacement to ensure safety and performance.

Can a carbon bike wheel be repaired?

Yes, a carbon bike wheel can be repaired if the damage is minor and typically located in a non-structural area, using professional carbon fiber patching techniques, but if the crack is severe or in a critical load-bearing area, the wheel may not be safely repairable and might require replacement to ensure optimal performance and safety.

Can aluminum bike wheels be repaired?

Yes, aluminum bike wheels can be repaired if the damage is minor, such as small dents or bends, using methods like truing or minor welding, but if the structural integrity is compromised or the damage is severe, it is safer and more effective to replace the wheel to ensure reliability and safety.

How to true a bike wheel?

To true a bike wheel you can do as following steps.

1. Secure the Bike: Place the bike in a stand to keep it stable and allow the wheel to spin freely. Ensuring the bike is stable helps you accurately assess and adjust the wheel without it moving unexpectedly.
2. Spin the Wheel: Rotate the wheel and observe the rim’s movement relative to the brake pads or a truing stand gauge. This step helps identify where the wheel deviates, wobbling side-to-side (lateral) or up-and-down (radial).
3. Locate the Misalignment: Note the areas where the rim deviates from the center line. Identifying specific spots of misalignment allows you to focus your adjustments precisely.
4. Adjust Spokes: Use a spoke wrench to tighten or loosen the spokes at the deviation points, turning in small increments (usually 1/4 turn at a time). Tightening spokes on one side pulls the rim toward that side, while loosening spokes on the opposite side helps correct the alignment.
5. Check Tension: Ensure the spokes have even tension by squeezing pairs of spokes together and feeling for consistent resistance. Even spoke tension is crucial for maintaining the wheel’s strength and stability.
6. Recheck the Wheel: Spin the wheel again to see if the adjustments have corrected the misalignment. Rechecking helps confirm if further adjustments are needed or if the wheel is now true.
7. Repeat as Necessary: Continue making small adjustments and rechecking until the wheel spins straight without wobbling. Patience and precision are key to achieving a perfectly trued wheel.
8. Test Ride: Once satisfied with the truing, take a short test ride to ensure the wheel performs well under actual riding conditions. A test ride verifies that the wheel is stable and safe for regular use.

How to remove rear bike wheel?

To remove the rear bike wheel, first shift the chain to the smallest cog on the cassette, then release the brake if necessary, open the quick-release lever or remove the thru-axle, lift the bike by the saddle, and gently pull the wheel out of the dropouts while guiding the derailleur out of the way.

How to straighten a bike wheel?

To straighten a bike wheel, secure the bike in a stand, identify the wobbling sections by spinning the wheel, and use a spoke wrench to adjust the tension of the spokes at the misaligned areas, tightening and loosening them incrementally until the rim runs true.

How to take front wheel off bike?

To take the front wheel off a bike, release the brake if necessary, open the quick-release lever or remove the thru-axle, and then gently lift the wheel out of the fork dropouts while holding the bike steady.

How to buy a bike wheel?

To buy a bike wheel, first determine the correct size, bike type (e.g., road, mountain, gravel), and specifications (such as hub type, axle size, and brake compatibility) for your bike, then shop online, visit a local bike store, or consider purchasing used wheels from a reputable seller, ensuring the wheel meets your needs and is in good condition. Verify the wheel’s compatibility with your bike’s frame and components, and check reviews or ask for advice to ensure quality and reliability.

How to build your own bike wheels?

To build your own bike wheels, gather the necessary bike wheel parts and equipment including rims, spokes, nipples, and hubs, then lace the spokes through the hub and rim in the correct pattern, tension the spokes evenly using a spoke wrench, and true the wheel by adjusting spoke tension until the rim runs straight and round.

How to build a mountain bike wheel?

To build a mountain bike wheel, assemble the required bike part components—rims, spokes, nipples, and hubs—lace the spokes through the hub and rim in the appropriate pattern, tension the spokes evenly using a spoke wrench, and true the wheel by making precise spoke adjustments until the rim is perfectly aligned and round.

How to build a road bike wheel?

To build a road bike wheel, gather the necessary components including rims, spokes, nipples, and hubs, lace the spokes through the hub and rim following the correct pattern, evenly tension the spokes with a spoke wrench, and true the wheel by adjusting the spoke tension to ensure the rim is straight and round.