Fitting Current Wheel Technology to Your Needs
By Smith, Mark E.; New Mobility, Vol. 21, No. 407, pp. 37-39Publication Date: December 2010
Article provides an overview of wheel models for ultralight manual wheelchairs. Primary push wheels have three main components: the rim, spokes and hub comprising the wheel itself, the handrim, and the tire, with each of these aspects affecting performance. The following wheel models are discussed: (1) Round Betty’s Dino wheel, which uses large diameter, tubular aluminum pokes to create a tough, light, no-flex wheel available in 24- and 25-inch sizes and compatible with 6-tab handrims; (2) the Topolino wheel, also available in 24- and 25-inch sizes, is described as the lightest wheel on the market; made of carbon fiber, it sports spokes run across the entire wheel, with the hub molded to each cross-spoke, thus reducing stress and saving weight; (3) Spinergy’s Light Extreme wheel, features “cable-like” spokes that can literally be tied into knots; the high impact wheel is available in eight spoke colors, in sizes from 22 to 26 inches; (4) the Fusion 16 model by Sun Components, a low priced wheel featuring a unique spoke pattern resulting in minimum spokes for less weight and maximum stiffness, available in sizes from 24 to 26 inches; and (5) the 25-inch Y-360 series of polished billet aluminum wheels by Colours. The importance of hub width is emphasized when evaluating wheel choices. Handrims recommended are the ergonomic models by Natural Fit and Spinergy, and tires reviewed include the puncture resistant Schwalbe Marathon Plus Evolution, the Kenda Court series for sports with a super-non-skid grip, and the Kenda Kobra, a 2 inch wide knobby offroad tire.
Assistive Products Discussed: NATURAL-FIT
CARBON CORE WX2.5
DINO WHEEL
SPORT LIGHT EXTREME SLX WITH R10 HUB
FUSION 16 WHEEL
Published by: No Limits Communications Inc. (Website:http://www.newmobility.com)
