3 Best Single Speed Wheelsets You Can Buy in 2023
If you like riding a single-speed bike or wish to upgrade your existing fixed gear bike with superior quality wheelsets, then single speed wheelsets are the best option to settle for.
These wheelsets don’t break off easily and serve you for a long time. Moreover, it makes all the difference in the performance of your bike. These sets are light and easy to navigate and turn.
We have enlisted and reviewed the three high-quality single speed wheelset to help you choose better and enjoy a smooth ride.
Therefore, even if you own a slow and sluggish bike, you can transform it into a smooth performer by replacing its existing wheels with these.
Best Single Speed Wheelset Review
After conducting extensive research, we concluded the following three choices, each worthy of the title “single speed wheelset.” Read below to know more about our picks:
1. Vuelta ZeroLite Track Comp 700C Wheel Set
The first pick on this list is the Vuelta ZeroLite track comp speed wheelset. It is an excellent set for anyone who wants to have a smooth experience riding on a bicycle.
The set only weighs about 2151 grams, with the front wheel weighing 1007 grams and the rear wheel weighing 1144 grams.
Due to the lightweight nature of the wheels, it is easier to install them. Peddling the bike also feels easy as a breeze.
The rims that come with the wheel have a dimension of 30mm, and these are pinned with alloy clinchers. It also comes with CNC on its sides.
This wheelset features a great look that gives your bike a stylish appearance.
And if you are not too of the racing look appearance attributable to the decals, you can simply remove those.
Apart from this, these are one-speed free wheels and have urethane-coated nylon rip strips.
You will not require a mechanic to help you with installing these wheels. The product comes with proper instructions and an easy installation mechanism that makes fixing these wheels on the bicycle a breeze.
And if you are a newcomer who is more comfortable with the improved speed cycling, then this set is perfect for you.
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Latest Guide: Wheelset Under $500
2. Pure Fix 700C 40mm Wheelset
Pure Fix is a trustworthy name when it comes to making quality accessories for bikes and bicycles.
For those of you who prefer stiff rides with maximum stability and want the cycle’s movement to be a bit light, this set of wheels is the perfect choice for you.
The set features a pair of a double-walled aluminum wheelset that comes with a front and rear wheel. Each wheel has a rim depth of 40mm.
Not only this, but the wheels also come with laser-etched KT Quando hubs. To facilitate single-speed riding, the rear wheel is equipped with flip-flop hubs and a 16T fixed cog.
Apart from the fixed cog, the rear wheel also contains a freewheel cog. Both the front and the rear wheels come with 32 spokes each.
Besides, they are protected with nylon rim-strips that protect the wheels from sharp stones and edges.
This prevents unforeseen wheel puncture situations that could hamper your smooth ride.
Moreover, this wheelset is compatible with ties sized from 23x700C to 32x700C, but the tires and tubes are not included in the package. You have to purchase them separately.
Besides, you can select your favorite color from the range of colors available for the wheelset.
You will get a variety of frame and gearing options that will enhance your flexibility.
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3. State Bicycle Fixed Gear Deep Profile Wheel Set
The third and last pick on our list is the in-depth profile wheelset from state bicycle.
It is a perfect fit for bikers looking for smooth rides with full control. This set features a 700c rim size with a 40mm rim depth front and rare wheel.
Moreover, there is a flip flop hub with a 16T fixed cog to facilitate better maneuvering.
Also, the tubes are well-protected against puncture with a nylon rim strip that protects the wheelset well in rough roads with broken edges.
On top of this, there exists a hub spacing of 100 and 120 mm in the front and rear wheels.
Unfortunately, the tires are not included in the package. However, it is recommended that a 700x25c or 700x23c road tire with Presta valves should be used with this brand.
The set contains rear hubs with sealed bearings to avail both the fixed gear and single speed function.
Not only this, but there are also 270mm 14g stainless steel spokes on the wheelset.
The front spokes are 100mm, while the rare spokes are 120mm. Besides, the weight of the front and rear wheels are 2 LBS and 3 LBS, respectively.
Moreover, the Rim included in this wheelset is made of 700c Alloy with a depth of 40mm.
On top of this, you can get a smooth and comfortable ride with this wheelset to give you maximum satisfaction and the best performance.
You can also ride hassle-free due to the excellent protection of the wheels against puncture.
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Related Guide: Top Fat Bike Wheelset
What to Look for Before Buying
To control your bike’s speed and performance, the role played by its wheels is of utmost importance.
It not only improves the handling of the bike but also enhances its appearance and styling.
Therefore, selecting the right wheelset is very significant in order to improve your entire biking experience.
Fixed Rear Hub
If the single-speed bike’s rear hub is fixed, then its different parts like the pedal, drivetrains, and wheels all move as one simultaneously. This helps to maintain balance during riding, and it also prevents coasting.
Therefore, when you try to buy a single-speed wheelset, check if it has its rear cog fixed to the wheels.
Lock Ring
Another vital component of the wheelset is its lock ring. It helps to attach the cog to the rear hub of the bike.
So, you must look for a single speed wheelset with a functional lock ring. If you buy a set with a faulty lock ring, you will fall in a predicament and find yourself unable to pedal.
What the Rim Is Made of
Durability is an important factor that should be taken into consideration while buying wheelsets.
And to ensure maximum durability, attention must be paid towards the material the Rim is made up of.
Components like carbon fiber, aluminum, and stainless steel are great options in this case.
These materials enhance the quality of the Rim and thus prevent it from tearing or bursting. However, these materials are a bit pricey.
Wheel Type
Depending on the type of rider you are, you should choose the wheel type of the wheelset.
There exist three types of wheelsets mainly, which are: shallow section, mid-section, and deep section.
If you are only starting out riding a bike, you should go for the shallow wheels.
On the other hand, if you are an expert and prefer to use your bike for racing, then the deep section one would be the best choice since this wheel helps to sustain maximum speed while riding.
Surface of the Brake System
This factor is essential to consider since you might skid and injure yourself without a good braking surface. It is best to look for one that is made up of either aluminum or carbon.
You will find braking surfaces made of aluminum more commonly, and therefore, you can get one for yourself.
Type of Tire
There exist several types of tires that are compatible with single-speed wheelsets. For example, a tubular tire is one type.
However, this one is the most advanced type and is too light, which provides excellent speed.
They do not come with a separate tube. Therefore, if you are a newbie, you should not opt for this option.
Another type you will see is the clincher type. It provides the greatest amount of safety in terms of riding. So, for beginners, this will be the best choice.
Lastly, there is another type, known as the tubeless tire. These tires come with an inner tube, and these are highly durable.
So, if durability is your priority, you should go for this option.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the best single speed gear ratio?
The most traditional and common gear ratio to go for on single-speed bikes is 2:1. This ratio gives the rider the flexibility to choose the wheel size, desired terrain, and other bike features.
2. How do you convert gears to a single-speed?
The process of converting the single-speed bike to variable speed isn’t that difficult. All you have to do is put the bike upside down or position it on a bike stand. Next, you will have to remove its chain and deflate the rear tires fully. After this, remove the back tire. Finally, you will need to remove its fixed gear cog by loosening its long ring.
3. What is fixed gear vs. single speed?
There aren’t any variations between these two types except for the fact that single speed ones are fitted with a freewheel, while the fixed-gear type isn’t.
4. Are single speed bikes any good?
These bikes help you take full pleasure of your bike ride without going through the trouble of shifting your gears. You also won’t have to maintain it much. Therefore, these bikes are perfect for beginners.
5. Can single speed bikes go up hills?
If you are planning to go uphill, it is better not to opt for a single-speed bike. These bikes are more suitable for flat and smooth terrains.
Final Words
Choosing the right single speed wheelset can be difficult if you are inexperienced in this field or are overwhelmed by the ridiculous number of options.
To make things easier for you, we reviewed the ones that we thought to be the best. You can now simply take your pick from this list, and you will be good to go.