WHAT RIM DEPTH FOR MY BIKE?

Introduction

Deep or shallow profile? The rim height on a road or gravel bike has a major influence on wheel behavior. It influences aerodynamics, handling and wheel weight. While, generally speaking, low-profile wheels are agile, light and responsive, deep profile wheels have a big aerodynamic advantage and allow the rider to benefit from the phenomenon of inertia (ease of maintaining high speed).

So it’s important to identify your needs in terms of your level of riding, the terrain you ride, road conditions, wind conditions, and your weight and height.

What rim depth for my bike…for what use?

Deep rims (over 50mm)

Deep rims are ideal for flat or gently sloping roads. As such, they’re a popular choice with power riders(criterium racers?) and triathletes.

Advantages :

  • Aerodynamically optimized.
  • Sailing effect.
  • Allows higher speeds to be maintained.

Disadvantages :

  • Slightly higher weight.
  • A bit less responsive.
  • + Sensitive to wind.
Ram D4960
Ram D4960
Markhor D50
Markhor D50

Medium-profile rims (36 to 50mm)

Medium-profile bicycle wheels are versatile. They are therefore at ease on all types of terrain, and are the perfect compromise for doing it all.

Advantages :

  • Versatility.
  • The right balance between responsiveness, weight and aerodynamics.
  • A pair to do it all.

Disadvantages :

  • Not specialized in one type of terrain.

Shallow rims (35mm and under)

Shallow rims are ideal for cyclists who love mountain roads. Thanks to their lightness and responsiveness, they’ll get you to the summit in record time.

Advantages :

  • Lightweight.
  • Agility and insensitivity to wind.
  • Very responsive.

Disadvantages :

  • Reduced aerodynamic advantage.
Mountain Goat D35.2
Mountain Goat D35.2

Choose the perfect bike rim height for your performance

Now that you know the pros and cons of each rim height, it’s time to make the right choice for your cycling goals. Explore our collection of carbon wheels and opt for performance!

Our Carbon Road & Gravel Wheels
  • 3-year warranty.

FAQ – Frequently asked questions

Shallow rims 35mm and under are the most suitable for mountain use. In addition to their agility and responsiveness, they help fight the climber’s main enemy: gravity, due to their weight.

A rim height from 36 to 50mm will cover your needs according to your level and size.

Deep rims (over 50mm) are best suited to this type of terrain. Their aerodynamics will help you maintain high speeds.

Don’t hesitate to contact us for advice: that’s what we’re here for. And don’t forget that every pair of catalog wheels you order on our site comes with a satisfaction guarantee.

Yes, the choice of tires and rims is crucial. You can’t have one without the other. Tires and rims form a couple that may or may not optimize rolling and aerodynamics.

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