How To Pick Motorcycle Wheels

Customizing your motorcycle is one of the best ways to start improving your time out on the road. And one of the best ways to start customizing your motorcycle and improving the overall experience on the road is by starting with the wheels. There are so many options to choose from when exploring wheel upgrades, but don’t worry — we’re here to help you discover the perfect match for your bike and your needs.

 

Why Upgrade Your Motorcycle Wheels?

Now that motorcycle owners have the option to buy aftermarket components for their bike to start optimizing how their bike looks according to their specific needs. Before aftermarket parts were an option, you’d have to go through the manufacturer to access any potential upgrades. They’d give you the option to change the bike’s makeup, but this was often expensive and not worthwhile. However, today, many motorcycle brands will partner with other manufacturers and create reputable aftermarket upgrades that customers can access for a much more affordable amount.

 

 

That’s perfect, because you can access a whole host of benefits from aftermarket wheel upgrades. For example, you’ll be able to get a wheel that looks more like you want, and you’ll also be able to access a lightweight wheel or even increase acceleration, and provide quicker more nimble turning and improved suspension depending on the wheel you choose. Modern wheels are far lighter than those even produced just a handful of years ago, which means you’ll be making an improvement in regard to almost any modification you do for your wheels. However, harnessing the other benefits could prove to be a bit more difficult and you’ll have to weigh the pros and cons of each feature.

 

To get started, we’ll help you narrow down wheels the easy way: one step at a time.

 

 

How to Narrow Down Your Wheel Improvement Choice:

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• Chose Spoke Preferences

• Width of Wheel

• Cast, Billet, or Laced

Choose Spoke Preferences

We recommend starting your shopping process small by first considering what kind of spokes you’d like your new wheels to have. The spokes are quite obviously one of the most cosmetic components of your bike and you can select between spoke rims and spike rims when needed. You can even choose between solid and spoked wheels, depending on your preference. Solid motorcycle rims will come with more variety in the design. However, spoke rims will have a much more classic look and are often made of aluminum which makes them far more resilient to road wear and tear. 

 

 

 

Width of Wheel

Bigger wheels are definitely in style at the moment. They’re not super wide in section but they are very tall  wheels. There are some that are as large as 30” in diameter that are used on the front end of the bike. These are great looking wheels and can get you farther faster, however, if you upgrade to a pair of these, you’ll have to upgrade your suspension while you’re at it. 

 

However, fitting different wheels into general forks and swinging arms shouldn’t be overly difficult. You can use spacers to account for size difference and explore options for your chain alignment and swinging arm clearance. If you’re looking for bigger wheels without a new suspension upgrade, you should be able to explore new sizes with ease. Just keep in mind your bike’s specs and the clearance measurements you’re really working with. 

 

 

Cast, Billet, or Laced

 

Once you’re done determining the above, you’ll need to decide on the type of wheel you want. RC Components offers three different types: cast, billet, and laced. Each type offers different benefits. For example, a cast wheel is made from lightweight aluminum and will generally feature a chrome or polished finish. These are pretty common installments on plenty of different types of bikes because they’re resistant to corrosion and are available in a wide variety of styles. 

 

The billet motorcycle wheels are made from a solid block of aluminum and are highly sought after because of how heavy duty they are. Due to their construction, they’re likely the strongest wheel you can access for your bike in the aftermarket industry. 

 

Laced wheels are perfect for folks looking for flexibility and durability. The spokes on these wheels are made to bend without breaking, which means your bike can handle road impact like a champ.

 

 

 

 

Shop RC Components Today

Now that you have an idea of what to look for, take a glance at our selection of wheels. We’re excited to help you find the wheel you and your motorcycle deserve.