R16-700 Road Bike Wheel, 700c / 622, 32 Spokes, QR Quick Release, 23-32c

Bicycle Wheel Compatibility: Understanding Tire Dimensions and Brake Types

Road and hybrid bicycles typically feature tire sizes denoted as 700x30, where the first number (700) indicates the need for a 700c replacement wheel. Mountain bikes, on the other hand, often display sizes like 29x2.35, with the first number (29) specifying the required 29-inch replacement wheel. In both cases, the second number represents the width of the tire.

When determining the type of brakes on your bicycle, there are a few key distinctions to be aware of. Caliper rim brakes are commonly found on road and hybrid style bikes, and they are cable-actuated, situated near the top of the front fork. Cantilever rim brakes are also cable-actuated, but they offer a broader range of tire width clearance, making them a popular choice for mountain bikes. Disc brakes, on the other hand, feature a rotor attached to the wheel hub and a caliper on the bottom left of the fork, which can be cable or hydraulically operated. It's important to note that not all of our wheels are compatible with disc brakes.

Ensuring the correct wheel-frame compatibility is crucial. Dropout-style frames and forks have slotted notches to allow the wheel to slide into place before being securely clamped with a quick release skewer or hub bolts and nuts. If your frame has holes instead, you'll need a wheel compatible with thru-axles.

To determine the appropriate axle dimensions, remove your front and rear wheels and measure the distance between the two dropouts. The front should measure 100mm, while the rear could be 120mm, 130mm, or 135mm. This width specification is essential when selecting the correct wheel for your bike.

Regarding the rear hub, modern bikes typically feature freehubs, where the gear cluster (cassette) slides onto a splined surface and locks in place. Older 5-, 6-, or 7-speed bikes may have threaded hubs, with the gear cluster threaded directly onto the hub.

To help you find the right wheels for your bike, we offer several options:

SW20-26, SW20-700, DW19-26, DW19-700, and R16-700. These wheels vary in their rim ISO measurements, tire width compatibility, and brake compatibility (rim or disc). Customer reviews for these products range from 3.6 to 4.4 out of 5 stars.

In summary, understanding tire dimensions, brake types, frame compatibility, and hub specifications is crucial when choosing the appropriate wheels for your bicycle. By considering these factors, you can ensure a secure and reliable wheel-frame fit, as well as optimal braking performance and versatility.

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