Wheels, Tires, and Inner Tubes

Road Bike Wheels: The essentials

Road bike wheels are a crucial element that influences both the performance and safety of your bike. They primarily consist of three parts: the hub, the rim, and the spokes. The hub, located at the center of the wheel, houses the bearings and is connected to the rim by the spokes. Wheels are attached to the bike frame via quick releases or thru-axles, depending on the model.

Most road bike wheels have a diameter of 700 mm, but there are also 650 mm models, often used for smaller frames. Depending on the type of tire you want to use, you can choose between three types of wheels: Tubetype, Tubeless, and tubular.

Comparison of road tire types

1. Tubetype Wheels (with inner tube):
   These are the most common. They use traditional tires with an inner tube. Easy to repair in case of a puncture, they are also the most affordable. This type of wheel is ideal for amateur cyclists or those looking for a simple and reliable solution.

2. Tubeless Wheels (without inner tube):
   Increasingly popular, Tubeless wheels offer several advantages: reduced risk of pinch flats, the ability to run at lower pressures for better comfort and grip, and improved rolling resistance. They are particularly appreciated by cyclists who ride on varied terrains or who seek optimized performance.

3. Tubular Wheels:
   Primarily used in competition, tubular wheels are lightweight and offer excellent performance. However, they require specific tires that are glued to the rim, making puncture repairs more complex. They are often chosen by professional cyclists for races due to their ability to provide a smooth and fast ride.

Materials and rim profiles

Bike wheels are mainly made of aluminum or carbon. Aluminum wheels are robust and economical, while carbon wheels are lighter and offer better rigidity, resulting in improved responsiveness and aerodynamics. Rims can also have varying profiles:

• Low profile (up to 30 mm): Lightweight and agile, ideal for climbing.
• Mid profile (30-50 mm): A good compromise between lightness and aerodynamics.
• High profile (over 50 mm): Designed for aerodynamics, perfect for time trials and flat courses.

Tire usage and selection
The choice of tires largely depends on your riding style:

• For smooth roads and competitions: Opt for narrower tires (23-25 mm) that offer low rolling resistance and good speed.
• For varied or rough terrains: Wider tires (28 mm and above) provide better comfort and grip.
• For long distances: Tubeless tires or those with reinforced inner tubes are recommended to reduce the risk of punctures.

In conclusion

Whether you are a recreational cyclist or a seasoned competitor, the choice of your wheels, tires, and inner tubes will have a direct impact on your comfort and performance. Carbon wheels with Tubeless tires are an increasingly popular option for those looking to maximize their efficiency. On the other hand, aluminum wheels with Tubetype tires remain a reliable and economical solution for cyclists of all levels.

Maintain your bike with our selection of wheels, tires, and inner tubes. Enjoy quality products at competitive prices at Cybervelo.