Road bike wheels make a huge difference to the overall performance of your bike. With the right wheels, you'll be able to keep your pace at a higher speed, and the ride will be smoother and more stable. Buying a new set of wheels is well worth the investment.
Wheels can come in three basic types. These include factory-built, hand-built, and cyclocross. Each type is built to pair with a specific manufacturer's bike.
Hand-built wheels are custom-built to the specifications of the rider. Typically, these are aluminum rims. These are lightweight, but can be harsh on rough terrain.
Disc brake wheels are lighter and aerodynamic. They also offer better braking performance. These types of wheels are available in a wide range of shapes and sizes.
These are the largest rotating components on your road bike. The rim material, spoke count, and wheel weight affect how the wheel rides. The lighter the wheel, the better.
Carbon fiber rims are more stiff, have a better lateral stiffness, and are less susceptible to heat during braking. Generally, these rims are paired with an aluminium brake surface. This is usually heavier than a single-material rim, but it will give you more braking power.
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