Clincher Wheels
The wheels on the bike create motion and influence ride quality. The impact of the road like road vibrations, surface imperfections and change of ground contour. So, match the riding style with the right wheels.
Constituents of a bicycle wheel
The constituents of the wheel can be upgraded or downgraded but it will influence the ride quality, speed, and braking attainment.
Rim-The wheel rim appears on the outside of the wheel. Firstly, it holds the tire and gives the braking surface. The rim width will influence the tire width and rider comfort.
Hub-The hub at the center facilitates axis of rotation. Inside each hub front and rear exists axle through which the wheel is attached to the bike.
Spokes-it is an object that links the hub with the rim. They are mostly made from steel wires. The back has more spokes for better strength and stiffness. Spokes are of different materials and are available in different shapes. This can lead to better strength and aerodynamics.
Nipples-Spokes join the wheel by a specific nut labelled as a nipple. It adjusts spoke tension.
What is a clincher
A clincher is the most common type of rim installed in clincher wheels. These bicycle rims help the tire to adhere through a ridge on the inside of the rim. Clincher wheels need a tube to inflate and hold air. The clincher has an open bottom and this way it stays clinched. It is constructed from steel or Kevlar fiber bead of hard rubber on its edge to support it on the rim. On the rims, the tubular and clincher wheels look alike. When the tire is fixed on the wheel rim and accurately inflated it holds firmly in place without shifting or moving.
Function
Apart from the frame for safety and performance of clincher wheels tires are also important. These wheels are well built and fitted with properly sized and inflated tires. The ride is safe and easy rolling. Clincher wheels tires and tubes should be in excellent shape to prevent trouble on the road or trail.
Most of the clincher wheels need tubes inside the tires. Purchase proper size of tubes and tires for clincher wheels this will extend reliability as well as performance. Ensure they are properly inflated. This is indicated on the sidewall of the tire. With recent advancement in technology some clincher wheels now do not need tubes inside the tires.
Clincher compared to tubular wheel
Clincher wheel is mostly used in bikes. Several roads and cyclotrons racers choice are in favor of tubular or sew-up wheels for extreme racing conditions. In tubular wheel needs a tire to be glued onto the rim. This construction is lighter than clincher rim.
Clinchers cost less than tubular by about 20-30%. When tubular goes flat you need to change the whole tubular. However, when a clincher goes flat the only tube needs to be changed. Little time is needed in learning how to change the clincher wheel tire. A tubular tire is likely to extend more mileage due to its construction. The tubular is a little lighter. Clincher wheels are available at every possible bike shop.
