I bought a bike about weeks ago and the front wheel has bent out of shape already (after minimal use on flat ground).
I guess that I need to replace it. It could be fixed, I guess, but I lack confidence in the wheel after it bent so soon. The back wheel is fine so I don't want the extra expense to replace this,
I'm new to cycling, so I have limited knowledge of wheels, how can I assure that I get the right size, width wheel for my bike?
Or do you think it's worth taking the chance and just getting the wheel repaired? Did you buy the bike new from a bike shop? If so, return it. If you bought an inexpensive bike from Walmart or some other department store, you may be able to return it also. If you purchased a used bike, than you are stuck.
The tire has the size written on the sidewall. If it is a mountain bike it will have 26" tires/wheels. This size is very common. If it is a road bike it will most likely have 700c (metric) wheels, also very common. If it is an old road bike it might have 27" tires/wheels which are obsolete but still available.
You can buy an inexpensive wheel from Nashbar or other on line shops. I'd say take it to a shop and see if it's possible to true it. That would cost around $10 to $20 and be much cheaper than new wheel(s). Fixing a wheel is fine as long as it can be done....sometimes the rim metal is just bent and then it's a goner. Otherwise, no worries.
If you shop for a new wheel, you need to the diameter and the width of the hub. Such as a 26" wheel with a 130mm hub axle width. Road bikes will be the same, but with a "700c" diameter (or possibly a 27" if it's a really old bike). Look at the tire and it should tell you what size they are. Old bikes sometimes have 126mm widths but 99% are 130mm. You can measure the fork dropouts with the wheel out of the bike (inside to inside) or have a shop do it for you.
If you get a new wheel, they can order you another cheapie for around $45 to $70, or you could look online for some good deals on a set. They're pretty beefy, but you can find a 26" Sun Rhinolyte wheelset with Deore hubs for about $90 at several retailers. Good deal and you won't be tweaking them unless you really take some drops. take it to a shop. they will tell you if its worth being fixed. if its a small wobble, any good repairman can fix it beautifully. you shouldnt have that problem again unless you just off a house. otherwise they will recommend getting a new wheel. they know what numbers to look for and what will fit. if you are confused, ask questions, they are their to help you. a new wheel generally runs $30-50 depending on quality and features. |
