Bicycle rims have different shapes, materials and sizes, but their features do not change. On the market you can buy carbon, aluminum, magnesium, and wood rims with a size between 26’ and 29’.
The important things to check out are, however, the following features:
- Resistance to internal tensions – those that move from rays to rim during pedaling. The rim must not lose its shape or be damaged when subjected to tension.
- Impact resistance – those that may occur in contact with the ground. The rim must not bend or break.
- Vibration damping – earth wheel contact generates considerable vibrations that first reach the rim. This must therefore be able to withstand these stresses.
- Corrosion resistance – what happens naturally in contact with weathering agents.
- Cooling capacity – the friction generated by the contact between the brake pads and the rim generates heat. The rim must be able to vent the heat as soon as possible.
Here are some practical shopping advices for buying bicycle rims.
– Buy rims suitable for the intended use: it is important to know in detail what will be the use of rims because there are different types depending on the bicycle disciplines.
– Pay attention to quality: it is better to buy rims from known and trustworthy manufacturers. Similarly, it is unnecessary to purchase high-quality rims if they are to work in contact with lower components. To lose would be the whole wheel system.
– Do not just look at the lightness: before buying ultra-light rims just to lessen the weight of your bike, it might be interesting to consider replacing some other component.