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In this article, we would like to look at the main types of rear wheels that are most commonly used when using an active wheelchair. The development of new technologies does not stand still, so nowadays you can choose exactly the material and design of the spokes that will meet your wishes in terms of appearance and technical characteristics.
In particular, the most common types of rear wheels are:
Let's consider all the options in turn and talk about their advantages and disadvantages.
• Wheels with metal spokes
The spokes of this type of wheel are made of metal or alloys, usually steel. This technology originated in the late 19th century and has been used for many years and continues to be used today. Most wheelchair users use this type of rear wheel. The advantages of these wheels include affordability and easy maintenance, which are often key factors in the choice. Such wheels are sold in many stores, their cost is relatively low, and they can be adjusted either independently at home or at the nearest bicycle workshop. The disadvantage of these wheels is their higher weight compared to wheels with fibre spokes.
Wheels with metal spokes can also be divided into several subtypes:
Cross-spoke wheels are wheels in which each spoke crosses several others in its fixed position. The number of crossings varies, for example, the so-called "double cross" means that a spoke will cross two other spokes twice on its way from the centre of the wheel to the rim. In the case of a "triple cross", the spoke will do so three times. A triple-crossed wheel is stronger than a double-crossed wheel not only because it has more spokes, but also because the angle at which the spokes are arranged makes the wheel more resistant to deformation from impact and force loads. A wheel with a double spoke will be lighter because it has fewer spokes and the spokes themselves are shorter. Therefore, if the user plans to use the trolley in more extreme conditions, it may be worth paying attention to triple spoke wheels, if the conditions of use are close to domestic, then double spoke wheels will be preferable in terms of lighter weight.
Radial spoke wheels are wheels in which the spokes do not cross each other, but run straight from the centre to the rim, like the radius of a circle. These wheels are not as resistant to stress as cross spoke wheels, but they are usually lighter in weight because their spokes are shorter. They also have better aerodynamic properties compared to cross spokes.
Wheels with an alternative spoke attachment are not as common as cross or radial wheels. Sometimes you can see people on the streets whose wheelchairs are equipped with wheels with spokes stretched in the form of "stars", "spider webs" and similar geometric shapes. Some wheels have separate rim segments to which the spokes are not attached at all. If you plan to fit such wheels to your trolley, please check with the manufacturer or retailer to ensure that they are suitable for the application of this product.
If you are looking for a reliable and affordable moderately active wheelchair with metal spokes, we recommend the Invacare Action 3 NG. This chair combines proven technology with ease of use.
• Wheels with fibre spokes
This relatively new spoke technology is increasingly capturing people's attention when choosing rear wheels for their wheelchairs. The material used to make the spokes in these wheels is not organic. It is not metal, alloy or anything like that. Instead, manufacturers offer a substitute for solid material with fibre fibres. Each spoke is made of tens of thousands of incredibly thin threads of synthetic material. Each manufacturer patents its manufacturing technology, the name of the material from which the spokes are made, and registers its brand of such wheels. Fibre spokes can withstand higher loads than metal spokes, are lighter in weight and provide better cushioning for the trolley. The price of such wheels is usually higher than the price of wheels with metal spokes, which makes them less affordable.
If you are interested in purchasing a wheelchair with fibre spoke wheels, we recommend that you pay attention to the Kushall K-Series active wheelchair, which combines innovative technology and high quality.
• Wheels with spoke replacements
Not all wheels have spokes in the usual sense of the word. In recent years, some manufacturers have been working very hard to develop new wheel technologies. One of the fruits of such developments is the so-called "loop wheels". These wheels do not have spokes, but instead have carbon bands in the form of loops from the centre to the rim. These wheels have a rather unique design and look. These wheels have about the same weight as wheels with metal spokes, but their ergonomics are better. In addition, according to manufacturers, they absorb up to 70% of vibrations when driving. The only thing to consider is that if you weigh less than 50 kg, you will not feel this absorption to such a great extent.
Like fibre spoke wheels, loop wheels are not cheap. They are not yet as widely used as their spoked predecessors, so you may find it difficult to locally source and maintain replacement components for them.
After we have looked at the main types of rear wheels for active wheelchairs, we would like to touch on the compatibility of certain wheel models with the models of wheelchairs used. It will not be very pleasant when a wheel of great value, created according to the most modern ergonomic standards, does not fit your current wheelchair. To avoid this, be sure to consult with the manufacturer or retailer before purchasing the wheel about the axle diameter that the wheel uses. This can be either 12 mm or ½ inch (12.7 mm). This diameter is the inside diameter of the bearings that are located in the centre of the wheel. Some manufacturers (more often those who manufacture wheels separately) allow you to choose the axle diameter when purchasing, so choose the one that fits your current wheelchair. Also, pay attention to the width of the wheel hub and the length of the small wheel insertion axle to ensure that it is exactly the same length and is fixed in the main axle of the wheelchair.