How to choose a bike rim in 2022

Rim - one of the main elements of the bike, which requires extremely rare replacement. However, faced with such a problem, the question arises: what model do you need for your two-wheeled vehicle? The review was made up of popular in 2022 and high-quality rims for bicycles of various types.

General information: bicycle rim, selection rules

The following components affect the quality of the rim:

• The material from which the structure is made;
• The number of walls in the structure of the hoop;
• Distinctive elements: notches for spokes, nipples and grooves for mounting tires;
• 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 knitting.

What are bicycle 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 aluminum;
3. Reinforced (three-walled) - rare specimens, not for standard driving or off-road riding.

Classification by the number of spokes (generally accepted standards):

• For touring bikes - 36;
• Mountain - 32;
• Highway - 28.

Note. In modern models, the stiffness of the rim and the strength of the spokes are valued, and the quantity is a secondary issue.

The table shows the rim diameter ratio and its application:

Size (inches)	Landing size (millimeters)	Which bikes are suitable
28	the most common in the world - 622	Road, touring, city bikes, etc.
29	622 (higher 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 the hardening process for processing. And the applied special paint and anodizing treatment (more expensive, usually black) helps to prevent corrosion of the aluminum rim.

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

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

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

List of notable companies

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

The rating includes the best manufacturers for this year, who are actively developing their field of activity and have long won the trust of customers.

Mach1 company

The French manufacturer is one of the leaders in the production of bicycle rims. Models of this brand are loved by athletes and those who prefer extreme skating. The entire presented range is as resistant to damage as possible, so it is 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 Co.

The products of this company are found on self-assembled wheels.Rims of various levels, suitable for (almost) any class of bikes. How to choose the right rim of this company? The table shows 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 pistons;
		"3" - medium level, piston;
		"72 - high level, piston and welded, Maxtal alloy,
		"8" - high-level, tubeless (UST), Maxtal alloy.
2nd and 3rd - inner rim width

Alex Rims Co.

Rims for middle class 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).

By their nature, the rims are slightly softer compared to other brands, which leads to more frequent appearance of eights on the wheel, however, it is more convenient to straighten them.

Sun Ringle Co.

Taiwanese manufacturers produce models a level higher in quality than the Alex brand. The presented line has a different price segment and is suitable for any bike. One of the world's lightest and most common rims is the Sun UFO 26″.

DT Swiss company

High-quality constructions (higher than average) are produced with individual markings that indicate that the rim belongs to:

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

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

List of models

The rating of high-quality models is compiled taking into account the companies described above. When selecting, customer reviews influenced the evaluation of the product and the compilation of 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 inner bore diameter. "C" means 622 mm.

CFX 622x13C

The black rim is cast in 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. Brake type: V-Brake.

Characteristics:

Name	Description
Number of walls	double wall
The size	700 C
The weight	480 grams
Diameter	28 inches
Number of holes	36
Good	under FV/Presta valves
Profile	aerodynamic
By price	1080 rubles

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

• Not identified.

ROAD RUNNER 700С

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

Characteristics:

Name	Description
The size	15C
The weight	500 g
Disc diameter	26 inches
Number of holes	36
valve type	FV
average price	1400 rubles

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

• Not identified.

NEO DISC 584X19C

6063t6 aluminum alloy bike rim size 584x19C can fit 28-62mm tires on the rim.

Characteristics:

Name	Description
Weight	490 g
Number of holes	32
Type of	double, piston
Suitable valve	AV
The size	27.5 inch
What is the price	1470 rubles

• Fairly light;
• Lasting;
• Lightweight;
• Aluminum
• Wide range of tire widths.

• Not detected.

"M 220 MX Disk 32H"

Multi-walled piston rim for tubeless tires with an auto nipple hole. The construction material is aluminium. Designed for MTB and road.

Characteristics:

Name	Description
The size	26 inches
Type of	2nd
Permissible brakes	disk
Number of holes	32
Parameters (mm):	width - 25, height - 21, camera hole - 8.5
The weight	480 g
Price	1700 rubles

• Structural strength;
• Stylish;
• anodized;
• Universal (for any gender);
• Double profile.

• Expensive.

"MAD 26" E-Bike"

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

Characteristics:

Name	Description
Parameters (in millimeters):	Width - 32, height - 22.6
holes	36 pieces
Rim Size (inches):	26
For brakes	disk
Price	2700 rubles

• Hard;
• Lasting;
• wear resistance;
• Unisex;
• Purpose;
• Compatibility;
• Light.

• price segment.

Rims "Mavic"

For more than 10 years, the company has been producing lightweight tubular rims using the latest technologies, so the products from this manufacturer have the highest rating on the market in terms of quality and service life.

REFLEX 32

The model is designed for a "bicycle single tube" made of aluminum alloy. It is the best option for asphalt, so they install a rim on road bikes.

Characteristics:

Name	Description
Number of holes	32
Net weight	360 g
Tires with a chamber (suitable)	20-22 mm
For valve with orifice diameter	6.5mm
Nipple length (recommended)	12 mm
The size	622x15C
Price	5400 rubles

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

• Expensive;
• Narrow specialization.

OPEN PRO J2420236

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

Characteristics:

Name	Description
Diameter (in 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 design;
• 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. Design in holes for spokes with caps. The brake track has anti-vibration ribs and is made using UB Control technology.

Characteristics:

Name	Description
Number of spoke holes	32
Adapter	8.5mm
Tires	28-47 mm
Clincher rims	622х19С
Diameter	28 inches
Additional appointment	trekking, touring
Price	1800 rubles

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

• Not identified.

"XC 717'12 Black 12818036"

Purpose of the reference rim: for jumping. It is used under V-Brake brakes. Using H2 technology, the manufacturer managed to increase the life of the model. The alloy has been improved by 30 percent, it has become stronger than the 6106 marking. The diameter of the hole for the valve is supplied with an adapter.

Characteristics:

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

• durable;
• The rim is resistant to damage;
• Model with nipple;
• The use of advanced technologies in the creation of the structure.

• Price.

Rims "Alex Rims"

The review was made up of popular models for various types of bicycles.

XD-Lite 29″

Piston aero profiled bike rim designed for all types of road bikes that are equipped with disc brakes. The spoke holes have a steel piston. Most often used for mountain bikes.

Characteristics:

Name	Description
Parameters (centimeters):	width 2.4; height - 2.9.
Diameter	29 inches
holes	32
Net weight	540 grams
The size	622X19
Nipple	shrader
Price (in rubles):	1500

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

• The weight.

"R450"

Non-pistoned rim for road bikes with machined track for brake pads.Construction joint on pins. The frame itself is made of 6061 aluminum.

Characteristics:

Name	Description
hole for the camera	6.5mm
Number of spokes	32
The weight	470 g
Diameter	28 inches
Profile	double
Cost in the middle price segment	1300 rubles

• Availability in price;
• Reinforced holes made of steel;
• Durability;
• Easy to straighten.

• Not identified.

"FR30 26"

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

Characteristics:

Name	Description
Camera type	car nipple
Diameter (in):	26
Number of holes	32
brakes	disk
Claimed weight	495 g
Price	1600 rubles

• Appointment;
• Quality assembly;
• Appearance.

• None.

Rims "Sun Rings"

Models are used under tubeless technology. They are made of aluminum, they have high-quality piston holes, and also have a smooth and inconspicuous seam.

"MTX-33 26"

The design is designed for trail and downhill. It has a high profile and single pistoning. The model is available in 2 colors: white and black. Used with disc brakes only.

Characteristics:

Name	Description
Net weight	660 grams
Parameters (in millimeters):	diameter - 559, external width - 33, internal - 26, profile height - 24
Size in inches	26
Nipple	Shcrader
spokes	32
Price	1300 rubles

• Color spectrum;
• Different execution of the 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 pistoned, suitable for use with rim brakes.

Characteristics:

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

• Budget;
• Light;
• Reliable;
• Narrow specialization.

• Not identified.

Mulefut 80 SL Presta

Aluminum alloy fatbike rim with tubeless technology.

Characteristics:

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

• Spoke features;
• Without pinning;
• Reliable design;
• Stylish appearance.

• Expensive;
• Heavy.

DT Swiss rims

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

"MTB 533d"

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

Characteristics:

Name	Description
spokes	32 pcs.
Width	22 mm
Diameter	29 inches
Color	the black
The 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 electric bikes in black double type. The construction material is aluminium. Purpose: for increased loads. Application: on bicycles equipped with disc brakes.

Characteristics:

Name	Description
Material	aluminum alloy DT Swiss
Profile	19 mm
Pin holes for spokes	32
Valve diameter	8.5mm
Purpose	Trekking, e-bike
The size	26 inches
Price	2190 rubles

• 2nd reinforced ring;
• Pin connection design, having two steel inserts;
• Strength;
• Durability;
• Specialization.

• Price.

R 460 DISC

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

Characteristics:

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

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

• Expensive.

Conclusion

Popular models are usually made of aluminum alloy. Each company uses individual technologies when creating models that affect the strength of the structure and the period of its use. A common alloy is 6061.

The popularity of 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:

• Options;
• Appointment;
• Price.

The criteria for choosing models are based on the distinctive qualities of the products of a single company. The best are rims of the middle price segment with reinforced holes for the spokes.

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

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