How to choose your MTB rims?
MTB rims provide the connection between your MTB tyre and the rest of your wheel. They play an important role in the efficiency and performance of your entire MTB. Here is how to help you choose.
Standards
- MTB wheel diameters: 26", 27.5", 27.5+ and 29"
- Rim profiles
- Rim materials
- The number of holes (or number of spokes)
- Brake types: V-Brake or disc
RIM TYPES
The diameter of the rim is directly determined by the geometry of the MTB frame. That is to say, you will not be able to fit 29" rims on a frame designed for 26" wheels.
Regarding the profile, it is worth knowing that the wider the rim, the more rigid and resistant it will be to lateral forces; and the taller it is, the better it will resist frontal forces. But of course, the less voluminous the rim, the lighter it is.
Reminder: Wider rims allow, for the same tyre, a greater air volume and therefore better absorption of uneven terrain.
Regarding materials, most rims are made from aluminium, which ensures a good strength-to-weight ratio. However, some carbon models are available to improve lightness and rigidity.
Regarding the number of holes (which corresponds to the number of spokes), bear in mind that the more holes there are, the more robust the wheel will be; and conversely, the fewer you have, the lighter but more fragile it will be. For a standard build, 32 spokes is the norm.
Reminder: this choice is constrained by the hub model. Both components must be designed for the same number of spokes.
Finally, you should be careful when choosing to find a model that is fully compatible with your braking system, particularly if you use V-Brakes, which require a braking surface that will not be found on rim models designed for disc brakes.
Which rim for my riding style?
In order to achieve the most dynamic build possible, the ideal approach is to find a rim that is as light as possible while being sufficiently robust for your MTB riding style.
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Touring
We recommend a rim width of 20 to 24 mm, an ideal compromise between robustness and comfort.
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Cross-Country
For XC rides, consider carbon rims if you are looking for performance, even though very good aluminium ones can do the job. We recommend models over 24 mm wide to keep weight low and prioritise efficiency.
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All-Mountain / Enduro
We recommend a rim between 28 and 35 mm, to provide all the comfort and resistance needed for these disciplines.
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DH / Freeride
In order to prioritise air volume (tyre) and robustness, you should opt for a rim width of at least 28 mm.
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MTB - Rims
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DT SWISS EX 511 29" 30 mm rim
Regular price 74,99 €Regular priceUnit price per -
DT SWISS FR 541 29" 30 mm rim
Regular price 79,99 €Regular priceUnit price per -
DT SWISS EX 511 27.5" 30 mm Rim
Regular price 74,99 €Regular priceUnit price per -
DT SWISS E 532 27.5" 30 mm rim
Regular price 56,99 €Regular priceUnit price per -
DT SWISS E 532 29" 30 mm rim
Regular price 56,99 €Regular priceUnit price per -
DT SWISS FR 541 27.5" 30 mm Rim Black
Regular price 79,99 €Regular priceUnit price per -
SPANK SPIKE RACE33 27.5" rim Black
Regular price 79,99 €Regular priceUnit price per -
SPANK SPIKE RACE 33 29" rim Black
Regular price 79,99 €Regular priceUnit price per
