What is a bicycle wheel for? One of its main functions is to provide driving control. That is, with his help, the cyclist can change the position of the front wheel and thus set the direction of movement. In addition, the steering wheel helps to feel more stable and comfortable on the road. For example, sports models are equipped with a โrobotโ, thanks to which you can change the position of the chain depending on speed or load. This device is controlled by two switches located on the bicycle bar.
The wheel is one of the main components of a bicycle. If it is correctly selected and properly installed, then this will directly affect not only the comfort of the cyclist, but also his safety. It is also very important to consider riding style. This is one of the main factors that are paid attention to when choosing vehicles and other components. This article describes in detail the device of the steering wheel, its varieties, as well as some tips to help you choose the right bike wheel.
Device
Before servicing a bicycle wheel, you need to study its structure, that is, find out what it consists of. The steering column is not one spare part, but a whole complex of parts, which consists of several parts:
- crossbar;
- takeaway;
- steering tube;
- steering glass.
The last three parts are always identical. These are standard mounts that serve to install the crossbar on the frame itself. And here is the first item on the list - this is the bike wheel on which you can fix the speed switches, brake handles, a bike computer and other accessories.
As a rule, when the bicycle falls, only the crossbar is damaged. The steering tube, glass and stem are always intact. In this case, it is necessary to replace the crossbar and adjust it as accurately as possible. The following describes how to do this correctly.
Adjustment
When buying a new crossbar, you must install it correctly. Adjusting the handlebars of the bike means that the bar is aligned perfectly perpendicular to the front wheel. It is also important to choose the optimal height. To do this, loosen the control nut on the steering tube and install the steering wheel as evenly as possible. Then tighten the nut tightly.
The height of the steering wheel of a bicycle is largely dependent on the height of the cyclist. Therefore, there are no clearly established rules, everyone decides what height of the crossbar is preferable to him.
How to eliminate backlash
Under the influence of vibration, the control nut on the steering wheel may loosen, and then play will appear. How can it be identified? To do this, put the bike on a perfectly flat surface and hold the front brake. Then we jerk the front fork forward, and if you feel a return in the steering column, then there is a backlash, and you need to get rid of it. How to do it?
First, unscrew the top bolt, which is located on the crossbar. After that, we install the crossbar in its original place, tighten the control nut tightly and again check the steering wheel for any play. Many are interested in why it may arise.
If the bike is new or recently bought, then the problem is in poor-quality assembly and adjustment. To prevent such situations, check for any backlash without leaving the store. A problem can also occur in older bicycles. Often this happens when the chamfers for bearings are worn. In this case, it is necessary to completely replace the part with a new and better one.
Types of steering columns
The steering column can be of several types:
- Threaded. All the elements that make up this column are considered classic and, as a rule, are installed on budget bikes. In the upper part there is a standardized chamfer on which the steering tube is mounted.
- Integrated. This column refers to a threadless system. Its main difference from the rest is the absence of cups. That is, the bearings are installed directly into the steering cup.
- Semi-integrated. Such a design may contain not only industrial bearings, but also standard ones. The integrated column contains only industrial ones.
Each of them has its pros and cons. For example, a semi-integrated steering column is very convenient when adjusting the steering wheel in height. The threaded column is less durable than others, but very affordable, as it is sold at a low price.
We examined several varieties of bicycle speakers, but now let's deal with the main part of the steering wheel - the crossbar.
Straight
This rudder looks like an ordinary pipe with a slight bulge in the central part. Often it is mounted on mountain bikes or on hybrids. Thanks to this form of steering, the cyclist feels confident on any road, and especially on rough terrain. This design can be seen at cross-country or other extreme cycling competitions.
The direct wheel of the bike is fixed at the saddle level, which reduces the load on the spine and increases visibility. Based on the reviews, this posture helps to significantly increase the maximum speed, which is very important for this type of bike.
It is highly recommended not to use this type of steering wheel over long distances. Back pain and numbness of the hands will appear after a couple of kilometers. To avoid this, it is recommended to install special horns on the handlebars of the bicycle, thanks to which you can change the position of the arms and back from time to time.
Highway
This steering wheel design is universal and can only be used on certain bikes that are designed for long trips. The main advantage of the steering wheel is the curved edges that resemble lamb horns. Thanks to this design, the cyclist can constantly change the position of his hands while riding, and with this steering wheel there are more than enough options for posture.
In order to develop maximum speed on a flat road, you need to grab the bottom edges of the highway steering wheel or, in other words, โtake the bike by the hornsโ. Thus, the landing of the cyclist will be parallel to the ground, and wind resistance will be minimal. This method is used at Tour de France when you need to quickly gain speed. Based on the reviews, this type of steering wheel is recommended for drivers and travelers.
Walking
As a rule, a high handlebar with curved edges is installed on city bicycles. This form will allow you to keep the vertical posture of the back, thereby increasing visibility. In addition, the load on the hands becomes minimal, and you can ride around the city for a long time without feeling any discomfort.
The bike mounts may vary. For example, you can install a basket, a flashlight, mirrors, a signal and much more. Thanks to the transverse tube, which is located in the central part, this design is very durable and allows you to transport more than 60 kilograms. Although this model relates to budget options, it cannot be argued that it is less quality than others. For trips on rough roads or large hollows, such a steering wheel is definitely not suitable. Therefore, it is best to use it on a flat road, near the city.
BMX steering wheel
BMX bikes, like road bikes, have their own unique handlebar designs. This type of transport is designed exclusively for jumping and all kinds of tricks. Since the load on such a bicycle is constantly high, it is necessary to install such a wheel, which will differ in power.
The shape of this steering wheel is somewhat similar to the walking type and differs only in the material of manufacture. If the steering wheel is made of aluminum, the steering wheel on the BMX is only made of high-strength metal, steel. As for the switches, they are completely absent here. Adjusting the speed on the handlebars of the bike will only interfere, and the braking system is unnecessary, since the speed on such bikes is low.
It is worth noting once again that this bike is designed exclusively for performing tricks. If you want to travel long distances, then BMX is the last option you can choose. Better to walk this way on foot than to pedal on such a small bike.
Selection tips
If you decide to change the bike wheel, but have not yet decided on the choice, then the following recommendations will help you pay attention to important nuances:
- Hand position. Surely you noticed that each style of riding is different from the other in the arrangement of the hands. This is a very important point. For example, with a long trip, the wrist may become numb or there will be pain in the back.
- Body position. If you have a road bike, you need to choose a steering wheel with horns that can improve aerodynamics.
- The diameter of the steering wheel. The switches on the bike handlebar are very important. Which diameters you can set depends on the correct diameter.
Each steering wheel has its pros and cons, and you need to consider this. It is recommended to choose it according to your riding style.
Conclusion
This article discussed the design of a bicycle handlebar and how to properly adjust it. There were also examples of several types of designs that are used in different bicycles. It is worth noting that changing the type of steering wheel is necessary only in the presence of an experienced cyclist. The steering wheel that is installed by the manufacturer is considered the most optimal.
For example, if you have a Stealth bike steering wheel and want to change it to a highway, because you have to travel far and often, then it is recommended to change the wheels. Over long distances, you should use a thin tire, thanks to which you can quickly gain maximum speed. But do not forget that the thin tire is less durable. If you often ride over rough terrain, it is best to choose thickened models.