| bike has its own unique design and style. However, the | | | | a wheel that offers sturdiness, is compatible and is |
| choice of tyres that accompany these models are far | | | | within your budget range. |
| more selective. The frame is designed for a specific | | | | Speaking of budgets, you can expect to pay |
| size of wheel, as are the breaks and gearing, | | | | anywhere between around 30 pounds and 100 pounds |
| therefore ensuring that you have the right ones is | | | | for a good wheel, for either a mountain or road bike. In |
| essential. | | | | the most part, as with anything, the more you spend, |
| First you need to determine the size of your wheel. If | | | | the better the quality you can expect. |
| you aren't already aware of this, simply take a look at | | | | Quality is a key factor for many cyclists. If you're going |
| your existing rim. It should have this figure written on it; | | | | to be doing a good deal of cycling, whether hurtling |
| for example on a mountain bike this might be 26" or | | | | down a muddy track or commuting on roads, ensuring |
| 700c for a road bike. These tend to be reasonably | | | | that everything is safe and secure can help to prevent |
| standard, however always ensure that you check | | | | regular changes or even a nasty accident. |
| before investing. | | | | Most wheels are properly scrutinised for structural |
| You will also need to be aware of what brakes your | | | | integrity so you shouldn't be overly concerned about |
| bicycle has. If you have standard v-brakes (sometimes | | | | any undue damage occurring as a result of regular |
| referred to as bike rim brakes) then you simply need | | | | usage. However, just bear in mind that if you are |
| to choose a style without any additional discs. | | | | planning to do some serious mileage, possibly in uneven |
| However, if you do have disc brakes (which are more | | | | terrain, you should probably consider a more |
| common with mountain bikes, although can be used on | | | | advanced, reinforced model that is compatible with |
| some road styles), you will need to ensure that the | | | | your bike frame. |
| wheel you buy either has the required disc or is | | | | So if you are simply looking for a like for like |
| compatible with it. | | | | replacement, always ensure that you follow the |
| Most now are quick release, as this will save time and | | | | specification of the previous wheel. If you are still |
| won't require tools when you comes to changing the | | | | unsure either contact a store or take it to your local |
| wheels or repairing a puncture. Alternatives though can | | | | bike shop. They will be able to help identify what will |
| be sought, particularly if you are buying for an older or | | | | work with your bike and may even be able to supply |
| specialist model. | | | | or order it in at the same time. |
| Competition wheels are manufactured to the highest | | | | If you are upgrading and looking for something a little |
| possible standards. Designed to be extremely tough | | | | different, remember that the rim size will have to |
| and rigid whilst also maintaining a lightweight structure, | | | | remain the same. You can of course choose to |
| these often cost a few hundred pounds - if not more. | | | | change the number of spokes and any other |
| These can of course be custom designed if you are | | | | specifications particular to your future requirements, but |
| racing professionally, but of course this isn't advised for | | | | just remember that the wheel has to be able to fit. |
| any leisure cyclists. In the most part you'll want to find | | | | |