Comment choisir ses roues de vélo carbone personnalisées ?

How to choose your custom carbon bike wheels?

Choosing carbon wheels: complete guide for optimal performance

The choice of carbon wheels is crucial for any cyclist looking to optimize their performance. Beyond the brand, several technical criteria must be considered to adapt the wheels to your specific practice.

1. Rim profile: impact on performance

The rim profile directly influences the aerodynamics, responsiveness, and handling of the bike.

  • Low rim (25-35 mm) : Ideal for the mountains, it offers lightness and responsiveness, making ascents easier.

  • Medium rim (40-50 mm) : Versatile, it strikes a good balance between weight and aerodynamics, suitable for varied courses.

  • High rim (60 mm and more) : Optimized for speed and time trials, it reduces aerodynamic drag on flat terrain.

2. The width of the rim: stability and comfort

The width of the rim influences compatibility with tires and the behavior of the bike.

  • Narrow rim (< 23 mm) : Compatible with narrow tires, it offers good performance on smooth roads.

  • Wide rim (25 mm and more) : It provides more stability, better grip, and increased comfort, especially on uneven roads.

A wider rim also allows for larger volume tires, reducing the necessary pressure and improving rolling resistance.

3. The choice of hubs and bearings: smoothness and durability

Hubs and bearings are essential for power transmission and smooth rotation.

  • Steel bearings : Reliable and affordable, they are suitable for regular use without extreme demands.

  • Ceramic bearings : More efficient, they reduce friction, offer better durability, and provide smoother rotation, ideal for competition.

The choice of hub also influences the rigidity of the wheel. A quality hub better withstands the stresses of spoking and ensures better power transmission.

4. The type of rim and the number of spokes: balance between aerodynamics and rigidity

Lacing affects lateral stiffness and the wheel's ability to withstand stresses.

  • Fewer spokes : Improves aerodynamics, reduces weight, but may decrease stiffness.

  • More spokes : Increases stiffness and strength, essential for powerful cyclists or demanding terrains.

A balanced build, with a number of spokes suited to your practice, ensures optimal performance.

5. The customization of carbon wheels: adapting your equipment to your goals

The customization of carbon wheels allows you to adapt your equipment to your practice and goals. At Unit Wheels, you can choose:

  • The rim profile and width : To match your preferred terrain.

  • The hubs and bearings : To optimize smoothness and durability.

  • The number of spokes : To balance aerodynamics and stiffness.

This customization allows for a unique setup, reflecting your image, while maintaining performance suited to your practice.

 

Conclusion

Choosing suitable carbon wheels requires considering several technical criteria: rim profile and width, type of hubs and bearings, lacing. The customization offered by brands like Unit Wheels allows you to optimize these parameters according to your specific needs, whether for mountain, time trial, or versatile use. An informed choice will ensure performance, comfort, and durability on all your rides.

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