Rims

In BMX racing, rims are a critical component of "rotational weight"—the most important place to save grams because it takes more energy to get a heavy wheel spinning. As the outer circular part of the wheel that holds the tire, the rim must be incredibly rigid to prevent flexing during hard cornering and explosive gate starts.

Modern race rims are generally manufactured from:

• Aluminum Rims: The traditional standard, usually made from high-grade 6061 or 7005 alloy. They are double-walled for strength and offer a great balance of durability, lightness, and affordability.

• Carbon Fiber Rims: The elite choice for weight reduction and maximum stiffness. Carbon rims do not flex under load, ensuring that all the rider's power is transferred directly to the track, though they require specific brake pads if the rider is using rim brakes.