What’s The Difference? – Carbon Fiber VS Aluminum Wheels

Share This Post

Bike riders often wonder what the difference is between carbon and aluminum bike wheels so in this video we’ll tell you everything you need to know. What really is the difference?

When we talk about aluminum or carbon wheels, what we are referring to is the material of the rim, as almost all hubs and spokes are made from metal. The vast majority of bikes are sold with aluminium wheels. Generally speaking, only the most expensive road bikes will come with carbon wheels and this means that they are a fairly common upgrade people consider. Carbon wheels look awesome. And well…. That’s the most important thing right?! Aesthetics are hugely important and Traditionally Most aluminium rims feature an unpainted aluminium rim on the brake track. Most paint finishes would wear off over time, so manufacturers just leave it bare. An entry level wheel would typically be alloy and weigh around 2kg for a pair without tyres. If you compare that with a premium deep section carbon wheel such as this Vision Metron 55, the rrp is 1950euro and it weighs 1580g a pair without tyres. A half a kilo saving in weight. You can go even lighter too. Some carbon wheelsets are as light as 1 kg a pair.