Understanding what is a wheelset
If you’re riding a bike, chances are you’ve heard of the term “wheelset”. It’s a key component of any bike and yet it’s a term that can sound intimidating and not very easy to understand. Wheelsets are the component of a bike that connects the tires to the drivetrain, enabling you to move forward or backward, as well as offer more control and grip when cornering.
In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what a wheelset is, how they’re different from other bike parts, and what you need to know when purchasing a new one.
what is a wheelset?
A wheelset is a manufactured pair or group of wheels that include the hub, spokes, and rim. Wheelsets are typically made of various lightweight metals like aluminum, magnesium, and carbon.
A wheelset is often sold as an entire assembly – with the hubs, spokes, and rim already pre-assembled and ready to install. Wheelsets are commonly composed of the front wheel and the back wheel, with each wheel having a distinct choice of size, weight, manufacturing material, and other features like width, depth, and shape.
How Are Wheelsets Different from Other Bike Parts?
Wheelsets are different from other bike parts because, unlike other parts like the frame, seat, handlebar, and brakes, the set of wheels ingrained in one’s bike is a pair of components that work together to help the bike move. They are a major part of the drivetrain and therefore, they are counted as an integral part of the complete package when it comes to bikes.
What Should I Look for in a wheelset?
When looking for a new wheelset for your bike, it’s important to consider size, weight, the hub, and the composite makeup of the rims and spokes.
The size that you’ll need for a new wheel depends on your bike frame, so if you’re not sure, you should consult a professional or measure your original wheelset.
Weight is also an important factor. Having a lightweight wheelset will allow you to go faster, as the extra weight can slow you down and be difficult to manage. However, too light of a wheel, or one with excessively thin spokes, can make it harder to control the bike, not to mention potentially dangerous if it cannot handle the rigors of the terrain you’re riding on. Consider the type of terrain you’ll be riding on, then balance your speed desires with the safety that a heavier wheelset can offer.
The hub plays a role in a wheelset’s performance, so it’s important to consider the hub’s suitability for your riding style and conditions. Mountain bike wheelsets usually feature large hubs with strong bearings and tight tolerances that can handle the punishment of off-road riding, while road bike hubs are usually lighter and feature smooth, durable bearings, lower profile axles, and smaller flanges.
The composite makeup of the rim and spokes also helps to determine how your wheelset will perform.Most riders prefer rims made of aluminum or aluminum alloy, as these are lightweight and durable, and offer good braking performance. Spokes made of stainless steel are the most common on high-end wheelsets, as they offer strength and robustness; however, titanium and carbon fiber spokes are also popular on high-end wheelsets due to their light weight and stiffer ride quality.
Finally, it’s important to note that wheelsets can come in both standard sizes and 650B, which was created to offer 27.5” wheel size options without having to resort to a 29er. 650B wheelsets are an excellent middle ground between the standard 26” wheelsets and 29” wheelsets, making them a perfect option for riders looking for a bit of extra speed and stability without sacrificing on maneuverability.
To conclude, wheelsets are an integral part of a bike and understanding what is a wheelset is key to picking the right one for your needs. Make sure to consider size, weight, the hub, and the composite makeup of the rims and spokes when looking for a new wheelset. Doing so will ensure that you get the best possible wheelset for your bike and riding style.