How to choose mountain bike rims?

How to choose mountain bike rims?

Visit mountain bike rims are the link between your mountain-bike tire tire and the rest of your wheel. They thus play an important role in the efficiency and performance of your entire vehicle. ATV. Here's how to make the right choice.

Standard models

  • The diameters of MTB wheel 26", 27.5", 27.5+ and 29".
  • Rim profiles
  • Rim materials
  • Number of holes (or spokes)
  • Brake type: V-Brake or disc brake

RIM TYPES

The diameter is directly determined by the geometry of the rim. mountain bike frame. In other words, you won't be able to fit 29" rims on a frame designed for 26" wheels.

As far as the profilethe wider the rim, the stiffer and more resistant it will be to lateral forces; and the higher it is, the better it will resist frontal forces. But of course, the smaller the rim, the lighter it is.
Reminder Wide rims provide a greater volume of air for the same tire, and therefore better absorption of relief.

About materialsMost rims are made of aluminum, which guarantees a good strength-to-weight ratio. However, there are also a few carbon models to improve lightness and rigidity.

For the number of holes (which corresponds to the number of spokes), bear in mind that the more you have, the stronger the wheel will be; conversely, the fewer you have, the lighter but more fragile it will be. On a classic wheel, you'll need 32 spokes.

Reminder This choice is constrained by the hub model. Both components must be designed for the same number of spokes.

Last but not least, you need to be careful when choosing a model that is compatible with your braking systemespecially if you use V-Brakes, which require a brake band not found on rims designed for disc brakes.

Which rim is right for me?

For the most dynamic riding possible, the ideal rim is the lightest yet strongest you can find.

  • Hiking
    We recommend a rim width of 20 to 24 mm, an ideal compromise between strength and comfort.
  • Cross-Country
    For XC outings, consider carbon rims if you're looking for performance, although very good aluminum ones can do the trick. Models wider than 24 mm are recommended to keep weight down and maximize performance.
  • All-Mountain / Enduro
    We recommend 28 to 35 mm rims, to provide all the comfort and strength needed for these practices.
  • DH / Freeeride
    To maximize air volume (tire) and sturdiness, we recommend a rim width of 28 mm minimum.

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