Wheelset Buying Guide
What is a bicycle 
without wheels? Wheels are one of the most essential parts of a bicycle, and different types of bicycles require different types of wheels. Most people buy wheelsets for their bicycles, which come with the front and rear wheel and are advertised as "ready built," therefore making them easy to assemble with the rest of the bike.
What To Consider
- Depending on what type of bike you have and your biking style, pick the wheel that is most appropriate. Lighter wheels for faster speeds and wider wheels for traction.
- Bike wheels need a lot of maintenance, from the tire pressure to the spokes, to insure a safe ride every time.
Anatomy Of A Bicycle Wheel
- Hub is where the axles connect to the wheel. Most are made from aluminum.
- Spokes are the thin rods/wires that connect the outer bicycle wheel to the hub. Stainless steel makes them strong and rust-free.
- Nipples are the small nails that connect the spokes to the rim. Most are made from aluminum and brass.
- Rims are where the tire rests on the outermost circumference of the wheel, connecting the hub to the spokes. Most are made from aluminum now instead of steel, so they are lighter.
Types Of Bicycle Wheels
- Racing Wheels are lightweight because they need to be more aerodynamic, with aluminum rims being the most common. They help wheels to glide smoothly.
- Mountain Bike Wheels have a 26 inch rim size to handle tougher terrain. The wheels also have lower air pressure in order to have greater traction and shock absorption on rough surfaces.
- BMX Wheels are even wider and shorter than mountain bike wheels for he much greater shock absorption needed during high-flying stunts.
Quick Picks
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Shimano XT 756/TA Rhynolite - 20mm front thru-axle compatibility.
- Quick release rear disc hub.
- DT Swiss spokes.
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Azonic Outlaw - Sealed cartridge bearing disc hub.
- Heavy duty rim.
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Shimano Deore Disc/Rhyno Lite - Silver straight gauge spokes and brass nipples.
- Presta valve drilling.
- Deore disc hubs laced with Rhyno lite rims.
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FSA XC-100 MTB - Hubs are standard QR and accept 6-bolt disc brake rotors.
- Takes Shimano-compatible 8/9 speed cassette.
- 24 spokes, F & R.
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Mavic Cosmic Elite - Profiled rim and bladed spokes deliver great aerodynamics and low frontal drag.
- 30 mm deep rim profile.
- Low spoke count (20/20).
- Ultra bladed spokes.
- Radial lacing on front and on rear non drive side.
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Major Manufacturers
Related Guides
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