custom motorcycle wheels

Types of custom motorcycle wheels

Custom motorycle wheels are the most important parts of any motorcycle, just like in a car. They are the point of contact between the motorcycle and the road. The wheels impact the ride quality, handling, and overall performance of the motorcycle. Custom motorcycle wheels can completely change the look and feel of a motorcycle. There are two main types of custom motorcycle wheels:

• Spoke Wheels

  Spoke wheels, also known as wire wheels, are traditional wheels that have been used for a long time in custom and traditional motorcycles. These wheels consist of a hub in the center, a rim on the outer edge, and many thin metal wires (spokes) that connect the two, forming a wheel. The spokes are usually made of stainless steel or other strong, flexible metals and are often laced in a crisscross pattern for added strength and stability.

  Advantages of spoke wheels include:

  • They are flexible and can absorb shocks from rough roads.
  • They are lighter compared to other types of wheels.
  • They have a classic and attractive look that many riders love.
  • They are often easier to repair in case of damage.

  However, spoke wheels also have some drawbacks:

  • They require regular maintenance, such as checking and tightening the spokes and keeping the hub and rim clean.
  • They are less smooth and noisier compared to other wheel types.
  • The wire and hub connections may require special skills and tools for repairs or replacements.

• Cast Wheels

  Cast wheels are made from a solid piece of metal, such as aluminum or magnesium, which gives them strength and durability. These wheels are commonly found on modern motorcycles due to their low maintenance requirements and good performance.

  Some advantages of cast wheels are:

  • They require little maintenance. Riders don't have to worry about tightening spokes or keeping the hub and rim clean.
  • They are strong and can handle high speeds and heavy loads, making them suitable for racing and off-road riding.
  • They provide stable and smooth rides on various road conditions.
  • They are often lighter and more compact, making the motorcycle easier to handle.

  However, cast wheels also have some drawbacks:

  • They are heavier than spoke wheels, which may affect the motorcycle's handling and acceleration.
  • They are difficult to repair if damaged. If the cast wheel is cracked or broken, it may need to be replaced entirely.
  • The solid construction of cast wheels makes them less flexible and can transmit shocks directly to the rider.

Specifications and maintenance of custom motorcycle wheels

Specifications

Custom motorcycles are defined by the wheels. The rims attract the eye and contribute to the bike's handling capabilities. When considering custom motorcycle wheels, it is crucial to understand the specifications, as they influence the bike's performance, aesthetics, and safety. Here are the key specifications:

• Wheel size

  Custom motorcycle wheels come in different sizes. The diameter and width of the rim affect the bike's handling and stability. A larger wheel size offers better stability and rolls over obstacles easily. It affects acceleration and requires more effort to turn. Smaller wheels improve acceleration and cornering ability.

• Wheel type

  Cast and spoke wheels are the two most common types of custom motorcycle wheels. Cast wheels are more durable and low maintenance. They are ideal for cruisers and touring bikes that cover long distances. Spoke wheels are traditional and offer a vintage appeal. They are popular in choppers and custom-built bikes.

• Material

  Steel and aluminum are the most common materials in custom motorcycle wheels. The material impacts the weight and strength of the wheel. Aluminum wheels are lightweight. They improve acceleration and handling. Steel wheels are more durable and resistant to damage.

• Offset

  The distance between the wheel's center and the bike's swingarm is the wheel's offset. It ensures the wheel is aligned with the bike's frame. The offset is crucial for custom-built bikes, as it affects the wheel's fit and the bike's stability.

• Load rating

  The load rating is the maximum weight the wheel can support. It is essential when choosing custom motorcycle wheels, as it affects the bike's performance and safety. Carrying more weight than the wheel can support affects acceleration, braking, and handling. The load rating is crucial for touring bikes that carry luggage and for the rider.

• Brake compatibility

  Custom motorcycle wheels are designed to be compatible with various brake systems. The wheel must have the right brake disc mounting points and clearance for the calipers. It ensures the bike's braking system functions efficiently and fits perfectly.

Maintenance

Maintaining custom motorcycle wheels is vital for safety, performance, and aesthetics. Here are the maintenance tips:

• Cleaning

  Cleaning the wheels regularly maintains their shine and performance. Dirt and brake dust can affect the bike's performance and the wheel's aesthetics. Use mild soap, water, and a soft brush to clean the wheels. Avoid harsh cleaners that can damage the wheel's finish. Clean the wheels at least once a week or after riding in dirty conditions.

• Inspection

  Inspect the custom motorcycle wheels for cracks, dents, and damage. Wheel damage can affect the bike's handling and lead to accidents. Check the spokes for loose or broken ones. A loose spoke can lead to a wobbly wheel, affecting the bike's stability and safety. Inspect the wheels before long rides or once a week.

• Balancing and alignment

  Balancing and aligning custom motorcycle wheels improve the bike's handling and stability. Unbalanced wheels can cause vibrations, affecting the bike's performance. Aligning the wheels ensures they fit perfectly with the bike's frame. The load rating is crucial for touring bikes that carry luggage and for the rider.

• Tire maintenance

  The custom motorcycle wheel and the tire are inseparable. Proper tire maintenance is essential for safety and performance. Maintain the tire pressure as per the manufacturer's specifications. Check the tire tread depth and replace the tires when worn out. Worn tires can affect the bike's traction, handling, and safety.

How to Choose Custom Motorcycle Wheels

Finding the right custom motorcycle wheels can be a daunting task. Here are some things that will help retailers source the right wheels for their customers.

• Style and Finish

  Custom motorcycle rims and tires are accessible in various styles and completions that supplement the bike's general look. Consider the plan components, for example, spoke arrangements, edge shapes, and embellishments like cleaning or anodized coatings. Select a completion that suits one's taste and will persevere through the bike's purposeful life.

• Size and Fitment

  The size of custom motorcycle wheels influences dealing with, riding, and general bike execution. Bigger wheels offer better cornering capacities and a consistent hold on the street, while more modest ones give more prominent readiness. Generally speaking, select a wheel size that supplements the bike's model and riding inclinations. Furthermore, ensure the custom wheels are viable with the bike's suspension, circle, and swingarm limits.

• Purpose and Riding Style

  Consider the bike's riding style and reason while choosing custom wheels. Picking custom wheels intended for experience riding, like rough terrain bikes, is ideal for cyclists who like experience and investigation. Then again, road or track-explicit wheels are more reasonable for sports bikes, offering speed increase and grip advantages if the wheel is intended for sports or racing.

• Budget

  Custom motorcycle wheels are accessible at various value marks, so setting a financial plan is fundamental. Custom wheels can be extravagant, yet they offer better execution and strength. In any case, searching for custom wheels that give the best benefit without settling on quality or execution, is fundamental. Moreover, remember the extra expenses related to wheel establishment, adjusting, and possible customization.

How to DIY and Replace Custom Motorcycle Wheels

Some custom wheels have simple designs that make them easy to work with. Even so, replacing or repairing custom motorcycle wheels requires some mechanical knowledge. Here are the general steps for replacing or repairing a custom motorcycle wheel:

• Safety Precautions

  Use protective gear such as gloves and goggles. Ensure the work area is well-lit and ventilated. Have all the tools within reach to limit the number of times one goes up and down.

• Gather the Tools

  To replace or repair custom wheels on a motorcycle, have the following tools ready. Wheel alignment tools, motorcycle lift or stand, torque wrench, and rim lock key. One may also need a spoke tension meter, bead breaker, and wheel balancer when replacing the wheel.

• Prepare the Motorcycle

  This involves ensuring that the bike is turned off and in gear. For a bike with an automatic transmission, ensure that the wheels are chocked. Disconnecting the brake calipers and aligning the custom wheel with the axle is important. Also, ensure that the custom wheel is properly aligned with the motorcycle's frame and suspension.

• Remove the Old Wheel

  Loosen the axle nut and use a socket wrench to remove the wheel. Before removing the wheel completely, check that the brake discs are not damaged. When removing the wheel, ensure that the brake calipers do not come into contact with the custom rim.

• Install the New Wheel

  The new custom motorcycle rim is carefully positioned on the bike's axle. Ensure that it is properly aligned with the brake discs and suspension components. The axle nut is then tightened to the manufacturer's specified torque settings. After installing the new wheel, the brake calipers are reattached.

• Final Checks

  Check the wheel's alignment and balance to ensure it is properly installed and functioning. Spin the wheel to check for any irregularities or vibrations. Test the brakes and ensure they function properly. Once the final checks are done, the motorcycle is carefully lifted off the stand.

Q and A

Q1: What are the benefits of upgrading to custom motorcycle wheels?

A1: Custom wheels can improve the motorcycle's look, performance, and handling. They can make the bike lighter, which helps with acceleration and braking, and they can also change the bike's overall geometry, making it more responsive in turns.

Q2: Are custom motorcycle wheels worth it?

A2: Custom wheels are worth it if the rider values aesthetics, performance, and personalization. The advantages often outweigh the costs in terms of improved handling, reduced weight, and the bike's overall appearance.

Q3: How long does it take to install custom wheels on a motorcycle?

A3: The installation time can vary, but custom wheels can typically be installed in 4 to 6 hours. This includes removing the old wheels, fitting the new ones, and adjusting all necessary components.

Q4: Can any motorcycle handle custom wheels?

A4: Custom wheels are designed to fit specific motorcycle models. Choosing wheels compatible with the custom motorcycle's make, model, and specifications is essential.

Q5: How should custom motorcycle wheels be maintained?

A5: Maintaining custom wheels involves regular cleaning, checking for damage or wear, and ensuring proper wheel alignment and spoke tension. Using appropriate wheel cleaners and protectants is also essential.