9 Best Road Bike Wheels Compared & Reviewed

 

Best Road Bike Wheel Review – Top Rated Models with Buying Guide

 

If you don’t have a lot of time on your hands, the following short paragraph is here to help you find the best road bike wheels. After a thorough analysis of the quality, value, and reliability of the top-rated models in this line, we’ve concluded that the one you should get is the Superteam Carbon Fiber Road Bike Wheels. This set of two wheels sports a 3K matte rim finish with fluorescent yellow logos on the sides, which allows the wheel to look great in motion. The wheels are great for cruising down the road at high speeds since this set has 20 front spokes and 24 rear spokes for comfort and stability. The package also includes extra accessories, namely brake pads, valve extender, rim tape, and quick release. Should the first product be unavailable, another excellent alternative that you can consider is the Queen Bike Carbon Fiber Road Bike Wheels.

 

 

Comparison table

 

 

 

9 Best Road Bike Wheels (Updated Reviews) in 2020

 

 

With so many carbon road bike wheels available on the market, it’s understandable if you find the sheer amount of alternatives overwhelming. To make it easier for you to choose the best road bike wheel, we have compiled a list of critically acclaimed products. These are the models that are notable thanks to their excellent quality, reliability, and comfort.

 

 

1. Superteam Carbon Fiber Road Bike Wheels 

 

If you’re looking for an upgrade, the Superteam wheelset offers an excellent balance between weight and strength. This is achieved thanks to the carbon fiber construction that allows them to be very light and sturdy. The wheels will ensure comfortable riding, and they have a nice feel that will allow you to maintain a smooth ride even at high speeds.

They also have a very slim profile that will compliment most bikes. The fluorescent yellow color is bound to make people turn their heads to admire your new purchase, but for cyclists who enjoy a more minimalist design, this model is available in nine other different colors.

The wheels are sized at 700c, which means that they will fit most adult road bikes, and they will also provide a resistance-free riding experience. The 12-layer carbon on the brake track will ensure improved braking performance. The maximum recommended rider weight for this model is 120kg or 264lbs.

 

Pros

It comes as a complete set that includes all the accessories you’ll need, such as brake pads, valve extender, quick release, and rim tape.

This model is available in ten different colors that are unique and capable of satisfying the needs of all cyclists, including those who prefer a more minimalistic design.

This option is a good choice for people who want premium-level performance without spending too much money.

The wheels are constructed to handle extensive use since, even after hundreds and hundreds of miles, most buyers have reported no issues with the rim or the spokes.

 

Cons

As is the case with most carbon wheels, people will know when you are riding near them since the wheels produce a cicada-like sound when in motion.

The stock braking pads that come included in the package aren’t of great quality, and you will be better off getting new ones.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($389)

 

 

 

2. Queen Bike Carbon Fiber Road Bike Wheels 

 

The Queen Bike wheelset uses a more minimalist approach, but you shouldn’t let that fool you since this option packs a lot of features for an excellent price point. The wheels are constructed from carbon fiber, which will help reduce their heft without compromising their sturdiness since they’re still capable of handling a rider weight of up to 264 pounds.

What’s more, the wheels have a clincher style design, which means that they are very easy to repair if you happen to encounter any problem on the road. The handling is great as well, and that’s primarily thanks to the natural lightweight design of this model.

Another advantage of this unit is the fact that it is not too heavy on the pocket compared to other models that offer similar performance and features. This means that it is a good pick for cyclists who favor performance but don’t want to spend too much on a wheel upgrade.

 

Pros

This product has a simple, low-profile, textured design that will appeal to cyclists who prefer a minimalistic yet stylish-looking set of wheels.

The carbon fiber construction ensures long-lasting durability while the clincher style design will make sure that it is easy for the rider to repair the wheel if necessary.

The seller allows all buyers to customize the wheels according to their needs, which means that if you want to make additional changes, you can feel free to contact Queen Bike.

It can handle a maximum rider weight of just over 260 pounds, and the maximum tire pressure is 125 PSI.

 

Cons

While the package comes with a full set of accessories, the items that are included don’t offer the same quality and durability as the wheelset itself.

When compared to other premium products, the price is low, but buyers who are searching for a low-cost alternative will need to look elsewhere.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($369)

 

 

 

3. Superteam U Shape Bike Wheel Clincher 

 

As is the case with most high-end models on the market, the Superteam wheelset is constructed from full carbon fiber, and this helps the wheels be lighter without any noticeable decrease in sturdiness compared to aluminum and alloy alternatives. They are built to handle thousands of miles and a rider weight of up to 260 pounds.

The design of this model also favors performance, which means that it is a good choice for cyclists who plan to ride at high speeds. The CN494 spokes (front 20 and rear 24) will ensure a smooth and stable riding experience at different speeds and on a variety of road conditions.

You can also enjoy an improved level of braking performance and control, seeing as the wheel is equipped with a 12-layer carbon on the brake track. All things considered, this wheelset is a great upgrade for the average cyclists who are looking for better performance at a good price.

 

Pros

The wheels have passed the EN quality standard test, which means that as far as reliability and durability are concerned, this product is capable of keeping you safe and comfortable on the road.

The carbon fiber construction allows the wheel to achieve a slimmer design, which leads to improved aerodynamic performance and higher speeds.

Compared to other similar products, this one is very silent, and even the braking noise is not very loud, and the noise can get even lower if you upgrade from the included braking pads.

It has a minimalistic design that doesn’t include any logos or stickers other than the mandatory warning stickers.

 

Cons

The spoke nipples are of average quality, which means that they are prone to damage, which can cause all sorts of issues.

The included brake pads are not bad, but they will need to be replaced after the first 500 miles since they wear out fast.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($399)

 

 

 

4. Wheel Master Weinmann LP18 Wheel Set 

 

This wheelset is constructed from alloy material, which makes it an excellent all-round purchase for sportive and leisure riders since the balance of lightweight, aerodynamic performance, and durability will serve the average cyclist. It is also much more affordable than carbon fiber alternatives, which means that it is a good choice for buyers who are on a tight budget.

While the alloy construction won’t offer the same ride quality as carbon fiber, riders will still be able to enjoy a smooth ride and reliable braking performance in most weather conditions. The spokes are constructed from 14G stainless steel, which helps ensure improved durability so that you won’t have to deal with loose spokes on long journeys.

The thing that you will need to keep in mind is that the rims have a narrow bead width. However, as long as you install the tire tubes carefully, by making sure that they are well inside the wheel before inflation, you shouldn’t encounter any problem.

 

Pros

It is available at a low price point, which makes this option more accessible for the average buyer who’s only looking for reliability, comfort, and performance.

The streamlined design provides better aerodynamics and lesser air resistance, which means that the wheels are perfect for both sportive and leisure riders.

Sturdiness is one of the most important factors to consider, and the alloy and stainless steel construction will help ensure that the wheels are more than capable of handling heavy use.

They come perfectly tuned, and their stylish looks make them an ideal choice for replacing or upgrading the wheels on vintage bikes.

 

Cons

The main issue with these wheels is the quality of the hub, particularly the rear one, which isn’t machined very well, and this causes it to have a slight wobble.

The stainless steel spokes are durable, but they don’t look like they are protected very well against rust, but this is something that only time will tell.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($151.83)

 

 

 

5. Wheel Master 700c Quick-Release Rear Wheel 

 

If you’re looking to replace an old or broken 700c rear bike wheel and you’re on a tight budget, you will be hard-pressed to find a cheaper model that offers the same quality as the Wheel Master 700c. This model is built up from a durable alloy double-wall rim for utmost durability and strength. It also includes a 6 bolt disc brake.

It is very easy to install since it is compatible with most adult road bikes. It is a versatile product that can be used for casual cycling, commuting, and even training. The spokes are constructed from stainless steel that’s superior to other materials since it is more durable, and it provides better stability.

Overall, this rear wheel may be on the lower-end side as far as price is concerned, but judging by its built quality and features, as well as the good user feedback, it should offer a great riding experience. It is strong, durable, and it delivers excellent reliability for a price that is hard to beat.

 

Pros

This is a pocket-friendly alternative that manages to include plenty of great features and benefits for what is essentially a very low price point.

The rear wheel is doubled-walled, which means that it is bulky enough to handle rougher roads and weather conditions so that you can ride carefree.

The spokes are constructed from stainless steel, which means that they will be less prone to rust if used in humid environments so that they can stand the test of time.

The wheel comes ready to use, which is a great advantage for beginner cyclists, and it is also greased well, so all that is left for you to do is to install it on your bike.

 

Cons

Shipping tends to take longer than usual, which can be an issue if you need the wheel fast, but other than that, it is hard to find anything of note to report against this model.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($69.29)

 

 

 

6. Alexrims 700c Road Bike Wheelset for Sram 

 

The competition in the budget wheel market is fierce, but Alexrims manages to stand out by offering an affordable wheelset that can still deliver modern specifications and looks. The wheels are built robustly, and the rims are true out of the box, with all the spokes properly tensioned and the bearing greased.

The performance of the wheelset is excellent as well, though it will depend a lot on the type of tire that you use. Considering that they are a bit heavier than the competition, they still spin up quite well. Don’t expect to use them for racing, but they move fast enough for leisure riding.

Lastly, as far as durability is concerned, this option doesn’t disappoint. The build quality is great, especially when considering that it is still a budget product. Moreover, since the bearings can be swapped out, this model will surely last you for a long time, especially if it is looked after well enough.

 

Pros

After taking the stickers off the rims, you are left with two wheels that have a nice sleek black design, which is sure to please cyclists who prefer a simple yet classy design.

The wheels are true right out of the box, which means that it is not necessary to make adjustments, and they can be fitted onto the bike immediately.

They spin very well, and the build quality is very sturdy, which means that it can handle potholes, gutters, and other general abuse and still stay true.

The 24mm deep aero design ensures compatibility with most tires, seeing as this is the standard rim width for most road bike wheels.

 

Cons

The rim welds are raised slightly, which can be an issue for the first rides until they wear down.

The hub and bearings appear to be a bit on the cheaper side, but nothing that should affect the performance of this model in any meaningful way.

Click to see the price on Amazon!

 

 

 

7. CyclingDeal WTB Freedom Road Bike Campy 12 Speed Wheelset 

 

If you’re looking for a complete set that includes everything your bike needs, then the CyclingDeal WTB Freedom will help you save a lot of money and time. The set includes front and rear wheels, and it comes with Continental 700C tires and tubes. The rims have an internal width of 13mm, and they are constructed from durable and light alloy material.

The spokes are constructed from 14G ED Blake stainless steel that is durable enough to handle the impacts dished out by concrete and tarmac. The biggest advantage of this set is that it comes with its own tires, in this case, the Continental ULTRASPORT Road Tire.

The tires have a folding bead design, which means that you can also use them as spares if you already have compatible tires to use with the wheels. All things considered, this option is a great solution for cyclists or commuters who find themselves often riding on their bikes.

 

Pros

If style is high up on your list, then you will appreciate the look of this model, which uses a more minimalist approach instead of focusing on flashy colors.

The wheels are of very high quality since they are constructed from durable alloy material, and they still manage to be very light at just 6.45 lbs.

This set delivers excellent value for money since included with the wheels, you also get high-quality Continental 700c tires and tubes.

Another great thing about the CyclingDeal WTB Freedom wheelset is that it can be used by riders who have different body types.

 

Cons

There’s only one color option with this model, which might be an issue for buyers who prefer to customize their wheels so that they complement their bikes.

The alloy material construction is durable enough for most cyclists, but it isn’t as sturdy or long-lasting as carbon fiber.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($259)

 

 

 

8. Vuelta Speed One Pro 700c Alloy Hand Built Road Wheelset 

 

The key advantage of this model is the fact that it is hand-built, and this allows each wheel to deliver consistent performance as each one has been thoroughly inspected by hand against manufacturing defects and errors. The wheels are constructed from alloy material, which delivers excellent durability without adding too much heft to your bike.

The outside width of the wheels is 22mm, and the inside width is 17mm. The wheel is slim enough to allow you to race at high speeds without experiencing tangible resistance or turbulence. Thus, the extra weight of the wheel compared to carbon fiber alternatives is mitigated by the aerodynamic design that this model uses.

The spokes are constructed out of C45 steel with brass nipples, which means that they are sturdy enough to handle rough roads and harsh weather conditions. Lastly, the price is also a selling point for this model since it is not easy to find hand-built wheels for cheap.

 

Pros

The alloy construction makes these wheels perfect for training purposes since they are heavy and sturdy enough to withstand the daily pressure of road riding.

It is perfect for cyclists who are searching for that classic hand-built wheel that can perform just as well as it looks.

This model uses high-quality C45 steel spokes with brass nipples that can hold a much higher weight capacity without bending or breaking.

The classic Vuelta logo on the sides is aesthetically pleasing without being too flashy, which allows the wheel to go well with all road bikes, no matter their color or style.

 

Cons

It can take anywhere between 1 to 2 months for the order to ship, so keep this in mind before ordering, especially if you need a replacement wheel urgently.

The internal bearing in the rear wheel could use some improvements since it is prone to malfunctioning, and this can make it difficult to pedal the bike.

Click to see the price on Amazon!

 

 

 

9. Hulk-sports 700C Bicycle Front & Rear Carbon Fiber Wheel 

 

The minimalist design, combined with the clincher style, makes this model a great purchase for cyclists who put a high price on practicality. The clincher style design will make it possible for you to repair the tire more quickly if you happen to encounter any problems on the road.

The carbon fiber construction is yet another strong suit for this model since it adds sturdiness and enhances the handling of the bike thanks to its natural lightweight construction. Another standout feature of this product is the proprietary Braking Surface Technology that uses high-temperature resin and basalt on the braking surface.

This innovative design delivers better heat-insulation qualities and higher thermal durability, which means that the brakes will have a better effect and will last for longer. The wheels can handle a rider weight limit of 242 lbs. and a maximum tire pressure limit of 125 PSI in your tire of choice.

 

Pros

The wheels use a new resin system and an improved construction method that, combined with the 3K/UD rim track, allow the wheel to withstand temperatures of over 530 degrees Fahrenheit.

The hand-built setup allows the wheel to pack the stiffness and lasting performance that’s required for both training and racing purposes.

It comes with a 2-year warranty that will have you covered against defects that can occur under normal usage.

The product is available as a complete wheelset, but if you only need the front or rear wheel, the seller allows you to buy individual wheels as well.

The package also includes the brake pads, two extra spokes, black quick-release skewers, and rim tape.

 

Cons

You need to be prepared to spend quite a bit of money on this model, so if you are on a tight budget, this might not be the product for you.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($229)

 

 

 

Our Comprehensive Buying Guide

 

With so many affordable road bike wheels to choose from, it can be confusing and time-consuming to settle on just one product. This is exactly why we have decided to compile a buying guide to help you through the process and answer some of the questions that you might have.

We’ve looked at numerous road bicycle wheels reviews and examined the quality of the top-rated models in this line to help us pinpoint the key features one ought to consider when looking to purchase the best budget road bike wheels.

Types of wheels

When prospecting the market for an affordable road bike wheel, you are bound to encounter three types of wheels: shallow-section, mid-section, and deep-section wheels. The shallow-section wheels are the most common type and for a good reason since they provide a very good ratio of strength to weight.

Shallow-section wheels provide a comfortable experience, and they can be used for all types of riding. Since they are so common, they are also available in all price ranges, making them a good choice for anyone who’s looking for cheap road bike wheels.

While not as popular, mid-section wheels stand out thanks to their slightly deeper section. These wheels are good for all-round use since they are fast enough for flat roads and light enough for climbing. The aerodynamic gains of the deeper section may make certain cyclists lean more toward this wheel type. The choice depends on your riding style.

Lastly, deep-section wheels are hard to miss since they have a very deep section that makes them look more like car wheels. The aerodynamic gains of the deep section make this wheel type suited for flat terrain, but recent advancements in manufacturing have allowed deep-section wheels to be used for off-road riding as well.

 

Material

The material that road bicycle wheels are made of can have a huge impact on the way that your bike performs, which is why it is essential to get the material that’s best suited for your purpose. There are three types of materials that you can choose from, namely carbon fiber, aluminum, and alloy.

Some of the best road bicycle wheels are made of carbon fiber, and this is the material that is generally used in most models currently available on the market. The reason why carbon fiber is so popular is that it weighs less than aluminum and most alloys while, at the same time, delivering a similar and sometimes superior durability.

However, this comes at a cost since if you are looking to purchase a cheap road bike wheel, you might have to go with an aluminum or alloy product since these are generally available for a much lower price.

Aluminum is a popular choice among casual cyclists since if subjected to impacts, the aluminum will bend instead of breaking, as is the case with carbon fiber. This means that if damaged, an aluminum wheel can still be repaired.

However, it should be mentioned that the force that’s required to break carbon fiber road bike wheels is far greater than the one required to bend an aluminum wheel.

 

Clincher or tubular wheels?

When purchasing the best road bike wheels for the money, you shouldn’t forget to consider the difference between clincher and tubular wheels. Clincher wheels are the most popular since they are easy to repair in case something happens to the tire. The clincher design allows the rider to remove and replace the damaged tire in a matter of minutes.

On the other hand, tubular tires are much more time-consuming since if they flatten or pop, you will need to slice them open, patch the hole, and sew them back up. This takes more time. In the end, it is up to you to decide, but if convenience is something that you care about, then the best road bicycle wheels are those that use a clincher design.

The braking surface

Something that is often forgotten when purchasing this type of product is to look at the quality of the braking surface. There are two major types of braking surfaces available, and these are aluminum or carbon. The consensus tends to be that aluminum braking surfaces provide the smoothest and most consistent performance.

However, this doesn’t mean that wheels that have a braking surface made of carbon aren’t up to the task, but generally, aluminum is the preferred material for the braking surface. If you’re uncertain about the quality of the braking surface on a particular wheel, you should take the time to check a couple of in-depth road bike wheel reviews for more details.

 

Look and style

While it is true that you shouldn’t base your decision on appearance alone, this doesn’t mean that this aspect doesn’t matter. In fact, you can get the best carbon road bike wheels on the market, but if you don’t feel satisfied with how they look, buyer’s remorse can make you unhappy with your purchase.

When spending your hard-earned money on the best road bike wheels under 1000, after considering all the technical features we’ve discussed above, the last factor that can help you decide on a product is its look and style.

Most models nowadays come with several selections to choose from so that you can get the same product in the color and style that will make you feel proud when cruising down the road.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions:

 

Q: What size wheels do road bikes have?

Road bike wheels come in a variety of sizes to accommodate the needs of most riders, but the most common one is 700c. Bike wheels that are available in the 700c size are designed to fit adult road bikes.

The second most common size is 650c, and this is designed for the smaller racing bikes used by women and juniors as well as for some high-performance triathlon and time trial bikes.

When looking at the size of the wheel, the rim diameter should be considered as well. Narrow rims are designed to work with narrow tires, and they can be pumped to a higher pressure, which will help the bike achieve more speed. Wider rims, however, are the standard for most commute and tour bikes.

When purchasing a road bike wheel, you should look for the ISO/ETRTO number that gives you information about the rim’s width. For instance, a 700c wheel has a diameter of 622mm. A 700c wheel that has a 15mm rim will have an ISO/ETRTO number that reads as 622×15.

Q: Does the road bike wheel size affect the speed?

From a purely mathematical perspective, the circumference of the wheel dictates the distance that it can travel for each revolution. This means that the larger that a wheel is, the faster the bike will be able to get per each given revolution per minute. However, there are limitations and some drawbacks to consider.

While a larger bike wheel can theoretically go faster than a smaller one, it will also be harder to accelerate, and it will resist to axis changes more, which will make it harder to steer. The larger that the wheel is, the larger that the hub will need to be as well to maintain the tension of the spokes and the wheel stiffness.

This means that larger wheels will also be heavier. It will be more difficult to achieve high speeds with a large wheel size, especially for a novice. The advantage of a large bike wheel is that it will be easier to maintain speed on straight roads, and it will roll over larger obstacles with greater ease, which will allow for smoother riding.

 

Q: What are road bike wheels made of?

Most road bike wheels are made of one of three materials: aluminum, alloy, or carbon fiber. For most affordable models, aluminum is the preferred choice since it is lightweight and sturdy enough to handle most roads.

However, for cyclists who favor performance, carbon fiber is the better choice since for these bikes, superior toughness and lightness are the properties that are required. Carbon fiber is the only material that can deliver both of these.

Certain alloys can offer better toughness or lightness than carbon fiber, but they aren’t capable of delivering them together. You can either have superior toughness or lightness. With carbon fiber, you can have the best of both worlds, which is why it is the material of choice for most high-end wheels.

For casual riding or commuting, aluminum or alloy wheels will work like a charm. As always, if there are details that you can’t find on the product page, you can also check a road bike wheel review for more information.

 

 

Bibliography:

http://hub.chainreactioncycles.com/buying-guides/wheels-and-tyres/wheels-buying-guide/#roadwheels

https://www.icebike.org/road-bike-wheels/