Bike Tires, Wheels & Fenders Review

Spokes hold the rim to the hub under tension. Each spoke has a nipple at the end that is used to adjust tension. These nipples are usually located on the rim end of the spoke. The nipples are usually visible in the spoke side of the rim. On racing wheels the nipples are on the tire side of the rim to gain a small aerodynamic advantage.

Rims complete the basic bike wheel assembly. Rims are commonly made of metals such as aluminum alloy, however carbon fiber composites are being used more and more often. Rims are how bike tires are held to the wheels.

Bike tires are specifically designed for individual riding styles as well as personal preferences and desires. It is always a matter of compromise when searching for the perfect bike tires. There is no one tire that fits all applications and styles of riding. You may choose to buy the tires individually or together. You can buy the Alex Wheelset for a set of popular tires that will last. 

There are two main categories of bike tires: clinchers and tubular tires. Most casual riders are more familiar with clincher tires. This is the standard style of tire found on most bikes. Clincher tires have a separate inner tube which is filled with air.

Usually, only serious racers use tubular tires. Tubular tires are actually an inner tube and a circular tire that have been preassembled and then glued to the rim. This type of tire is not as commonly used in part because it is not easy to fix a flat along the roadside. Tubular tires are much lighter than clincher tires, making them better suited for racing.

When speaking of bike tires, tubes, and wheels, it is only natural to then think about fenders. While many bicycles do not come standard with fenders, they are common aftermarket bike accessories. Though not commonly seen on racing bikes or mountain bikes, they are often seen on touring and road bikes. Bike fenders are actually mudguards that protect a bicycle’s moving parts from mud and grit. Fenders also keep the rider from having that nice line of mud and road grime up their back when riding in the rain.

So the bicycle is now properly equipped with bike tires, wheels & fenders. The only accessory that is lacking for that long road trip is a bike hydration pack. These packs are commonly known as Camelbacks, which is actually a brand name for bike hydration systems. Worn like backpack, these systems hold water in a bladder that is connected to a long rubbery straw. The straw can be accessed while riding. The pack itself has extra storage pockets for energy bars, tire repair kits and other small items.

Models

Pricing

Bike tires can cost anywhere from $15 US to $400 US depending on intended use and performance. Standard bike wheels run from $50 US to just under $100 US, while high performance wheels can cost much more. Bike fenders tend to cost around $12 US to $25 US.