Rims

Choosing a rim

The bicycle rim - like the bicycle frame - hasn't changed much in design over the years: it's still round and always will be. From the first wooden rims evolved steel, then alloy, and now (if you can afford it) carbon.

Of all bicycle parts the rim can make a significant difference to your bike's handling. Firstly, the weight of your rim affects sprinting and climbing, since excess weight will simply slow you down. However, for a long, flat effort this isn't so important, and once rolling the weight can actually help.

The shape of the rim is also important: a flat rim may be best for climbing when aerodynamics are not an issue, while a deep section (aero) rim will help you cut through the air, but in a cross wind could cause poor handling.