Wheel parts

BMX Wheels and Wheel Parts - A Complete Guide

When riding BMX, the wheels are one of the most important components of your bike. Understanding how each part of the wheel works and what they contribute is critical to both performance and durability. Here we go over the most important parts of a BMX wheel and what you need to consider when upgrading or replacing parts.

Wheel

BMX wheels are designed to be durable and lightweight, making them ideal for tricks and jumps. The wheels consist of rims, spokes, hubs and hub guards, and all these parts play an important role in providing stability and durability under extreme stress.

Deck

BMX tires come in different sizes and patterns depending on the type of riding you do. They are usually wider than standard bicycle tires to provide better grip and stability during tricks. Tires with aggressive patterns provide better grip on soil and dirt, while smoother tires are better for park and street riding where speed and control are priorities.

Hoses

Tubes for BMX tires play as important a role as the tires themselves. They must withstand high pressures and provide sufficient shock absorption to withstand tough landings and impacts. Tubes come in different thicknesses and materials to meet different needs, and it's important to choose the right size for your tire.

Rims

The rims are the outer part of the BMX wheel and one of the most critical components. Durable and lightweight aluminum rims are standard on most BMX wheels, but high-performance models may have reinforced rims to withstand the extreme stresses of tricks and jumps. Double wall rims are often recommended for extra durability.

Hub

The hub is the core of the BMX wheel and affects how smoothly and stably your wheel spins. BMX hubs come in both front and rear versions, with the rear hub often having more technical features such as different types of freehubs or cassette hubs to handle drive and speed. A good hub provides a smooth roll and can improve the bike's response during tricks such as manuals and spins.

Hub Guards

Hub guards are protection for the hub and spokes, and they are mainly used by BMX riders who perform grinds on rails and ledges. They protect the hub and spokes from damage during these hard impacts and extend the life of your wheel parts. Hub guards can be made of plastic or metal, depending on the desired durability and weight.