How to choose a bicycle rim in 2020

Rim Is one of the basic elements of a bicycle that requires extremely rare replacement. However, faced with such a problem, the question arises: what model is needed for your two-wheeled vehicle? We reviewed the popular in 2020 and high-quality bicycle rims for various types.

General information: bicycle rim, selection rules

The following components affect rim quality:

• The material from which the structure is made;
• The number of walls present in the structure of the hoop;
• Features: recesses for spokes, nipples and tire grooves;
• Construction width (mm): road, cyclocross - 15, light cross-country and hybrid - 17, hybrids and heavy cross-country - 19, cycling, light extreme - 21, downhill, for extreme sports - 23+;
• Length;
• The nature of the lacing.

What are bike rims? They are divided into several narrow groups. The main types are presented for consideration.

Profile classification:

1. Single-walled - budget models made of steel strip;
2. Double-walled - high rigidity made of aluminum;
3. Reinforced (three-walled) - rare specimens, not for standard driving or off-road driving.

Spoke classification (generally accepted standards):

• Touring bicycles - 36;
• Mountain - 32;
• Highways - 28.

Note. In modern models, rim rigidity and spoke strength are valued, and quantity is a secondary issue.

The table shows the ratio of the rim diameter and its application:

Size (inches)	Landing size (millimeters)	Which bike is suitable
28	most widespread in the world - 622	Road, touring, city bike, etc.
29	622 (taller and thicker rubber)	for niners
26	559	Mountain bikes
36 and 27.5	less common	"Monsters"

Material used:

• Aluminum;
• Steel;
• Carbon.

The most common material is aluminum. The main advantages of this alloy:

• Strength;
• Versatility;
• Frost resistance;
• Low cost.

Manufacturers have learned to increase the stiffness parameter by applying a hardening process for processing. And to prevent corrosion of the aluminum rim, the applied special paint and anodizing treatment (more expensive, usually black) help.

Steel structures are very rare. They were supplanted by aluminum alloy rims, since the material's rigidity is in many ways superior to steel. They are resistant to wear and tear, hard, but heavy in weight. However, many people prefer steel rims for long distance riding.

Carbon fiber construction is considered the most practical and costly. It is light enough, has an increased level of hardness and surpasses aluminum in its properties.

Based on the information provided, you can easily decide which rim to buy for your bike.

List of famous companies

What brand is better to buy a bicycle rim? There are several options from the most famous manufacturers to choose from. Each company specializes in one or more profiles and has its own "chip".

The rating includes the best manufacturers for the current year, which are actively developing their field of activity and have long won the trust of buyers.

Mach1 company

The French manufacturer is one of the leading manufacturers of bicycle rims. Models of this brand are loved by athletes and those who prefer extreme skiing. The entire presented range is maximally resistant to damage, therefore it has been in operation for a long time. This is confirmed by a warranty card from the manufacturer when purchasing a product, which is issued for a period of six months.

Mavic company

The products of this company are found on self-assembled wheels. Rims of various levels, suitable (almost) for any class of bicycles. How to choose the right rim from this company? The table contains the names and their decoding:

Name	Explanation	Description
Letters	indicate the purpose of the rim	"XM" - trail,
		"XC" - cross-country,
		"EN" - enduro,
		"EX" - extreme sports,
		"TN" - niner,
		"A" - hybrid
Numbers	1st - rim class	"1" - the cheapest, without caps;
		"3" - middle level, piston;
		“72 - high grade, piston and welded, Maxtal alloy,
		"8" - High End Tubeless (UST) Maxtal Alloy.
2nd and 3rd - inner rim width

Alex Rims

Rims for the middle class of bicycles. The company supplies a full range of products for all types of bicycles, from inexpensive single-wall to high-quality welded (for freeride and cross-country).

In terms of their specificity, the rims are a little softer in comparison with other brands, which leads to more frequent appearance of eights on the wheel, however, straightening them is more convenient.

Sun Ringle Company

Taiwanese manufacturers release models to a level higher in quality from the Alex brand. The presented line has a different price segment and is suitable for any bike. One of the lightest and most widespread rims in the world is the Sun UFO 26 ″.

DT Swiss

High-quality designs (above average) are available with individual markings that indicate rim ownership:

• cross-country - "X";
• trail - "M";
• enduro - "E";
• freeride - "F";
• lightweight racing rim - "R";
• carbon rim - "C".

The numbers in the titles indicate the approximate weight of the rim (in grams). Lightweight models have a welded joint and are an expensive product. It is important to note that all designs are disc type (compatible with discs only).

Model List

The rating of quality models is compiled taking into account the companies described above. During the selection, customer reviews influenced the assessment of the product and drawing up the final points about it: the pros and cons of each type of rim.

Rims "Mach1"

For a simpler understanding of the size of the rim of this company, an explanation is given to the numerical designations: most often the parameters are indicated in this form - 700 x 35C. This means that the number "700" is the outer diameter and "35" is the width of the rim. The letter is the bore inner diameter. "C" means 622 mm.

"CFX 622x13C"

The black rim is cast from ALLOY 6063 T6 alloy. It has a double layer and a rigid profile. Most often, this model is chosen by professional athletes. Provides for the installation of tires with a width of 18-28 mm. Brakes type: V-Brake.

Specifications:

Name	Description
Number of walls	double-walled
The size	700 C
Weight	480 gram
Diameter	28 inch
Number of holes	36
Good	under FV / Presta valve
Profile	aerodynamic
By price	1080 rubles

• Structural strength;
• Manufacturer's warranty;
• Inexpensive;
• Looks stylish.

• Not identified.

ROAD RUNNER 700С

With grooved tires, the rim is designed for road and cyclocross bikes.

Specifications:

Name	Description
The size	15 C
Weight	500 g
Disc diameter	26 inch
Number of holes	36
Valve type	FV
average price	1400 rubles

• Reliable;
• Inexpensive;
• Universal;
• Pistonized.

• Not identified.

"NEO DISC 584X19C"

The 584x19C 6063t6 aluminum alloy bicycle rim fits 28-62mm tires.

Specifications:

Name	Description
Weight	490 g
Number of holes	32
A type	double piston
Suitable valve	AV
The size	27.5 inch
How much is	1470 rubles

• Light enough;
• Lasting;
• Lightweight;
• Aluminum
• Wide range of tires in width.

• Not detected.

"M 220 MX Disk 32H"

Multi-wall piston rim for tubeless tires with a hole for auto-nipple. Construction material - aluminum. Designed for MTB and highway.

Specifications:

Name	Description
The size	26 inch
A type	2nd
Permitted brakes	disk
Number of holes	32
Parameters (mm):	width - 25, height - 21, hole for the camera - 8.5
Weight	480 g
Price	1700 rubles

• Structural strength;
• Stylish;
• Anodizing;
• Universal (for any gender);
• Two-profile.

• Dear.

"MAD 26 ″ E-Bike"

The 6063-T6 aluminum construction is compatible with regular and electric bikes, DH and FR. Models are used for off-road driving, rough terrain, testing, for track racing, extreme and sports cycling.

Specifications:

Name	Description
Parameters (in millimeters):	Width - 32, height - 22.6
Holes	36 pieces
Rim size (inches):	26
For brakes	disk
The cost	2700 rubles

• Hard;
• Lasting;
• Wear resistance;
• Unisex;
• Purpose;
• Compatibility;
• Easy.

• Price segment.

Mavic rims

The company has been producing low-weight tubular rims for more than 10 years using the latest technologies, so the products from this manufacturer have the highest marks in the market for quality and service life.

"REFLEX 32"

The model is designed for "bicycle one-tube" made of aluminum alloy. It is the best option for asphalt, so it fits the rim on road bikes.

Specifications:

Name	Description
Number of holes	32
Net weight	360 g
Tires with a tube (fit)	20-22 mm
For valve with bore diameter	6.5 mm
Din nipple (recommended)	12 mm
The size	622x15С
The cost	5400 rubles

• Incredibly lightweight;
• Manufacturer's warranty;
• Design;
• Quality.

• Dear;
• Narrow specialization.

"OPEN PRO J2420236"

Model with 36 spoke holes designed for mountain bikes (MTB).

Specifications:

Name	Description
Diameter (inches):	26
Tire width	less than 22 mm
Year of issue	2018
Aluminum alloy	6106
Cost of goods	3900 rubles

• The rim is resistant to damage;
• Reliable construction;
• Stylish;
• Novelty.

• Cost of goods.

"A 119"

Double rim in 6106 material for road and road bikes with rim brakes. Suitable for driving on bad roads. Construction in holes for spokes with caps. The brake track has anti-vibration ribs and is made using UB Control technology.

Specifications:

Name	Description
Number of spoke holes	32
Adapter	8.5 mm
Tires	28-47 mm
Clincher rims	622x19С
Diameter	28 inch
Additional purpose	trekking, touring
Price	1800 rubles

• Rim wear indicator;
• Durable alloy;
• Acceptable price;
• Wide application.

• Not identified.

"XC 717'12 Black 12818036"

The purpose of the reference rim is for jumping.It is used for V-Brake brakes. Using H2 technology, the manufacturer was able to extend the life of the model. The alloy has improved by 30 percent and is stronger than the 6106 mark. The valve hole diameter is supplied with the adapter.

Specifications:

Appointment	Description
Riding style	cross country
Tire width	1-2,10
Valve hole diameter	8.5 mm
Nipple length	12 mm
Size (inches):	26
Weight	420 g
average cost	3300 rubles

• Long lasting;
• The rim is resistant to damage;
• Model with nipple;
• The use of advanced technologies when creating a structure.

• Cost.

Rims "Alex Rims"

A review was made of popular models for various types of bicycles.

"XD-Lite 29"

The piston aero profile bicycle rim is designed for all types of road models that are equipped with disc brakes. The spoke holes have a steel cap. Most often used for mountain bikes.

Specifications:

Name	Description
Parameters (centimeters):	width 2.4; height - 2.9.
Diameter	29 inch
Holes	32
Net weight	540 gram
The size	622X19
Nipple	Shrader
Price (in rubles):	1500

• Black anodized;
• Versatility;
• Structural strength;
• Inexpensive models;
• Manufacturer's warranty.

• Weight.

"R450"

Non-punctured road bike rim with grooved brake pad. The joint of the structure is on pins. The frame itself is made of 6061 aluminum.

Specifications:

Name	Description
Camera hole	6.5 mm
Number of spokes	32
Weight	470 g
Diameter	28 inch
Profile	double
Cost in the middle price segment	1300 rubles

• Affordability in price;
• Reinforced steel holes;
• Durability;
• Easy to straighten.

• Not identified.

"FR30 26"

Universal model with double wall and single piston. The aluminum rim with increased outer and inner width is used in the field from dirt jumping to cycling.

Specifications:

Name	Description
Camera type	car nipple
Diameter (inches):	26
Number of holes	32
Brakes	disk
Declared weight	495 g
Price	1600 rubles

• Appointment;
• High-quality assembly;
• Appearance.

• None.

Rims "Sun Ringle"

Models are used for tubeless technology. They are made of aluminum, they have high-quality piston holes, and also have an even and inconspicuous seam.

"MTX-33 26 ″"

Designed for trail and downhill. It has a high profile and single piston finish. The model is produced in 2 colors: white and black. For use with disc brakes only.

Specifications:

Name	Description
Net weight	660 gram
Parameters (in millimeters):	diameter - 559, outer width - 33, inner - 26, profile height - 24
Size in inches	26
Nipple	Shcrader
Spitz	32
The cost	1300 rubles

• Color spectrum;
• Different types of seam (riveted, welded);
• New;
• High quality anodized coating;
• Ideal for trekking;
• Strength.

• Heavy.

"ICI-1 Ano Sleeved W / E"

Designed for BMX racing using aircraft grade aluminum. The rim is piston-coated, suitable for use with rim brakes.

Specifications:

Name	Description
Size (inches):	20
Width	21.6 mm
Number of spokes	32
Weight	340 g
Profile	classic, rectangular
Material	aluminum
Price tag	1000 rubles

• Budgetary;
• Easy;
• Reliable;
• Narrow specialization.

• Not identified.

Mulefut 80 SL Presta

Aluminum alloy fatbike rim with tubeless technology.

Specifications:

Name	Description
Number of spokes	32
Compatibility	bicycle nipple Presta
Weight	780 g
External width	8 cm
Diameter	27.5 inch
average price	5000 rubles

• Features of lacing;
• Without pistoning;
• Reliable construction;
• Stylish appearance.

• Expensive;
• Heavy.

Rims "DT Swiss"

The Swiss company offers rims for bicycles for various purposes, which are more expensive in price (in comparison with other representatives), but also many times better.

"MTB 533d"

Double rim (piston) with Presta nipple hole designed for MTB. The construction is made of durable aluminum alloy.

Specifications:

Name	Description
Spitz	32 pcs.
Width	22 mm
Diameter	29 inch
Colour	the black
Weight	575 g
Riding style	All Mountain, Trail, Enduro, Freeride
Brake type	hydraulic disc
average cost	2100 rubles

• Multifunctionality;
• Powerful;
• Reliable;
• Stylish design.

• Weight;
• Price.

"545 DISC"

Model for touring or e-bikes in black double type. Construction material - aluminum. Purpose: for increased loads. Application: on bicycles equipped with disc brakes.

Specifications:

Name	Description
Material	DT Swiss aluminum alloy
Profile	19 mm
Holes with spoke caps	32
Valve diameter	8.5 mm
Appointment	Trekking, e-bike
The size	26 inch
The cost	2190 rubles

• 2nd reinforced ring;
• Pin connection of the structure with two steel inserts;
• Strength;
• Durability;
• Specialization.

• Price.

"R 460 DISC"

Road rim, double type. Construction material - aluminum alloy.

Specifications:

Name	Description
Spitz	32
ERD	596 mm
The size	700C
Width	18 mm
Price (rubles):	3200

• Wide application;
• Strength;
• Lifetime;
• Design.

• Expensive.

Output

Popular models are usually made of aluminum alloy. Each company uses individual technologies to create models that affect the strength of the structure and its useful life. 6061 is considered a widespread alloy.

The popularity of the models depends on the type of bike for which the rim is intended. Common models are road, tourist and mountain specimens.

The functionality of all manufactured brands of rims is similar to each other in that for the reliability of the design, models with holes for the spokes are used.

The main differences between the rims are:

• Parameters;
• Appointment;
• Cost.

The selection criteria for models are based on the distinctive qualities of the products of a particular company. The best rims are the middle price segment with reinforced spoke holes.

Considering this fact, a rating of the best rims for the current year was compiled. According to buyers, not only expensive models, but also of average and low cost can be worthy copies.

In order not to make mistakes when choosing a model for your bike, you need to carefully study the functionality of the structure and analyze customer reviews. First of all, what you should pay attention to is the compatibility of the rim with the brake system.