Motorcycle Wheels
Motorcycle wheels are usually sturdy and cause no trouble. The problem areas are usually the tires and the bearings. Tires get punctured or worn out and will eventually need replacement. Bearings require regular maintenance and need substitution only when they are used past their lifespan.
The basic part, the motorcycle rim itself, is of robust construction. The bike rims are made of steel or aluminum with steel spokes and an aluminum hub. All modern wheels are of one-piece construction. Wire wheels have a central hub connected to the rim of the bike wheel via spokes made of wire. Spokes are tough and do not bend easily.
Bike enthusiasts have a lot of variety to choose from. Here is a representative list of the different types available in the market.
Solid wheels and spoke wheels are the two basic types. With solid wheels, the rim and spokes are cast as one unit, whereas with a spoke wheel, the spokes are laced into the rim.
Cast Motorcycle Rims
Most of the bike wheels have cast rims. Made of cast aluminum, they come with chrome or polished finish.
Billet Wheels
Billet motorcycle wheels are a great custom modification to one's bike. These are becoming increasingly popular because of the intricate designs that can be produced. The carving is computer controlled, and one can have an array of complex designs to suit one's taste. More expensive than cast rims, billet motorcycle wheels come in chrome or polished finish.
Most often people like to know what type of chrome plating motorcycle wheels have. Bike rims have decorative chrome plating that is different from hard chrome plating. Hard chrome plating has heavy coating intended for strong wear resistance, oil retention and lubricity. Examples include components for industrial applications such as hydraulic cylinders and mold surfaces.
Decorative chrome plating done on motorcycle wheels always involves electroplating nickel before plating the chrome.
Carbon Fiber Wheels
Carbon fiber wheels belong to the upper end of available choices. They are preferred by racing enthusiasts for certain distinct advantages such as:
- High strength-to-weight ratio
- Corrosion-free property
- Impressive looks because of the woven finish
- Long product life
Carbon fiber rims are very expensive and are definitely not for those opting to be frugal in customizing their bikes.
Maintenance
Fortunately, motorcycle wheels do not require high skill maintenance. Yet, a certain amount of upkeep helps. Regular cleaning prevents corrosion and spoke failure. Spoke failure can cause tire punctures when the broken spoke pushes into the wheel.
All said and done, it is up to the user to select the best type of motorcycle wheel he needs. Functionality, looks, price and durability are the main issues that most bike owners compare.