Debating On Alloy Wheels Vs Spoke Wheels – Which Is Better For You?

10 Sep 2021

Before the 1970s, spoke wheels were primarily used in the manufacturing of tyres. Alloy wheels came along later, changing the dynamics of the tyre manufacturing industry. The use of alloy wheels resulted from the advancements made in metallurgy and metal forging in the 1970s. While the vehicle manufacturing industry made much advancement with the introduction of alloy wheels, many vehicles, especially two-wheelers, still use spoke tyres. So, let us discuss the difference between alloy wheels and spoke wheels in two-wheelers and understand how they can affect your two wheeler insurance.

Spoke Wheels Vs Alloy Wheels in Motorcycles – Meaning and Definition

To properly understand alloy wheels or spoke wheels – which is better, we must first understand the meaning of the two terms.

Alloy Wheels

Alloy wheels are light in weight as they are made from lightweight metal alloys like magnesium and aluminium. The alloy wheels’ production method is known as casting. In this method, hot molten alloy is poured into the wheel cast. After the alloy has cooled off in the cast, the wheel is extracted. There is another kind of alloy wheel that has high-performance in two-wheelers. It is known as a forged alloy wheel. While manufacturing alloy wheels can be more expensive, there are many advantages of using them, especially when it comes to bikes and other two-wheelers.

Spoke Wheels

Spoke wheels are built using spokes and steel rims. Spokes are made from steel and other similar metals and joined to a two-wheelers hub where the brake drum is located. They are then fixed with the nipples on the steel rim of the bike. The entire structure of spoke wheels is designed to be as flexible as possible. This is why two-wheeler manufacturers prefer to use spoke wheels for off-road two-wheelers like dirt bikes, ATVs, and scramblers.

Spoke Wheels Vs Alloy Wheels in Bikes – What Should You Choose?

While you may now know the technical definitions of what spoke wheels and alloy wheels are, you may still be wondering; alloy wheels vs spoke wheels, which is better for you? Consider these factors to make an informed decision.

Alloy wheels

• Tubeless tyres:-One big advantage alloy wheels have over spoke wheels is that they are tubeless. Tubeless tyres are less prone to punctures, which can be a regular occurrence in two-wheelers.
• Lighter in weight:-Due to the light weight of the metal alloy in alloy wheels, they are substantially lighter than spoke wheels. The lighter weight makes the tyres more aerodynamic and fuel-efficient.
• Room for customisation:-Alloy wheels can come in different designs and colours due to their manufacturing process. As such, if you like, you can get your wheels customised per your preferences.

Spoke wheels

• Tyre insurance:-A significant advantage of spoke wheels is that Tyre insurance covers accidental damage to the wheel. Since spoke wheels are cheaper than alloy wheels, their insurance is also more affordable than alloy wheels.
• For off-road vehicles:-The most prominent use for spoke wheels is for off-road vehicles. Spoke wheels are more flexible than alloy wheels, which makes them ideal for uneven terrains.
• Inexpensive:-Typically, spoke wheels are less expensive than alloy wheels. This is attributed to the fact that the manufacturing process of spoke wheels is not as complicated as alloy wheels.

Conclusion: With this comparison of alloy wheels vs spoke wheels, you can now judge for yourself what the better option for your vehicle is. You must choose based on your specific requirements, the type of usage you expect to get out of your car and your affordability.

Disclaimer: For more details on risk factors, terms & conditions please read sales brochure carefully before concluding a sale. *The discount amount will vary subject to vehicle specification and place of registration.