Rims

Unlike cars, rims are an integral part of the overall aesthetics of a vehicle. Car rims can sometimes go unnoticed as they sit much lower. But that is not the case with a rim. And for that reason, rims are one of the most customised parts of motorcycles and cars.

There are many reasons to get a new wheel rim. Whether it be to replace a broken rim or upgrade the stock rim, there are many options to consider. The tire-rim combination makes or breaks the ride quality and safety of a motorcycle. And for this reason, you have to take the utmost care when selecting a new set of rims. To do that, you need at least the basic knowledge of the wheel rims and all the factors to consider when you buy a new one. This article will give you a basic idea of rims. Having a better understanding of them will help you choose the right one while shopping.

Different types of rims

Like there are different types and sizes of vehicles, there are various designs and models of rims. Because not two kinds of rims are created equal, each has its sets of advantages and disadvantages. And the type and size of the rim can vary between the back and front wheel of the exact vehicle. This is because the back wheel does all the heavy work. Here are the different types of rims that you will come across in the market. You will need to know this before deciding which one to buy.

Spoke motorcycle wheels

These are the suitable old types of wheels that used to be the only type of wheel in every motorcycle out there. This is a set of hubs and rims with steel or aluminium sprockets that connect them both. Just because it is old doesn’t mean that it is outdated. It has many advantages over the newer alloy wheels and billet wheels. The thin spokes provide enough give to the wheel that allows them to absorb impacts. Only the rest of the impact is transferred to the shock absorber and then to the person on the motorcycle. Another benefit is the lightweight construction. Both of these factors make them the default option for motorsport bikes.

Alloy wheels

Single piece wheels or alloy wheels rose in popularity during the 70s. Apart from the fact that they were better looking, better handling due to their rigidity of them made them suitable at higher speeds. Variations of alloy wheels are still the staple in modern racing bikes. Because they do not bend like spoke wheels, they are more predictable and consistent in turns. And for sporting events, this is so important. But you will see them even on street vehicles for aesthetic reasons. Because alloy wheels are made in automated machines, they are usually cheaper than spoke wheels.

Billet wheels

‘Forged wheels’ is just another name for this. The life of a forged wheel begins as a solid piece of metal called a billet. And like all the traditional forging processes, a billet goes through immense heat and pressure. The benefit is that billet wheels are much stronger than cast wheels. But the forging process is slow, and only a few billet wheels are made in a typical wheel factory in a day. The manufacturer can have better control over the shape and details of the billet wheel. And forging allows them to achieve wheels that are stronger even with the use of less metal. They are much more resistant to corrosion.

Carbon fibre wheels

Probably the rarest and the most expensive type of wheels you can get your hands on. Carbon fibre wheels have a slew of benefits to them. They are lightweight and incredibly strong. Lightweight wheels can help reduce the vehicle’s weight and can thus improve its mileage and performance. They are also durable and provide consistent contact with the road surface. But like anything, great things come at a cost. The only thing that might be holding back many people from installing carbon fibre wheels on their vehicles is the insanely high cost.