I'm building a single-speed commuter bike and I was wondering what the advantages and disadvantages of steel and alloy wheels are. Any experts out there who can give me specifics for each kind?
Alloy wheels are definitely the standard on most bikes nowadays, ive always bought rims from mavic and they have always taken a battering. In fact the last two bikes i owned both cracked while the wheels were almost perfect! Different types of rims can be bought depending on how you ride and of course the more you pay generally the better the rims. Also alloy wheels will be a lot lighter and corrosion resistant . Hope this helps
Steel wheels are at the lowest cost and quality end of bike equipment. If you're even thinking of buying a cheapo bike with steel wheels - don't. Steel wheels are poor quality and therefore weaker than an OK alum rim. They are heavier, braking isn't as good, won't stay true as long. Alum wheels are extruded, not cast, and are better in every way. They cost more is the only down side.
I am a major advocate for steel in bicycle construction, except when it comes to rims. If you are using cantilever or caliper brakes, steel rims are a major no-no, as any moisture greatly reduces your stopping power, practically rendering your brakes useless. Sure, bright chrome rims definitely look nice, but their useful application is extremely limited, and mainly consigned to accurate restorations of antique bikes. If you really want to use chrome steel rims on a bike, make sure you have either disc brakes, drum brakes, or a coaster brake. Aluminum rims have been in use for about 100 years now, and for good reason.
