Custom wheels are a rage when really riding your bike because they make a good bike great.
Custom Hubs: Light, Strong, and High Engagement
Custom hubs are going to be lighter, stronger, and have more engagement. Some companies specialize in these parts and they can be quite amazing. From bearings to everything that goes into a custom hub, they can make a good bike great—from keeping speed to pedal engagement. Like always, you get what you pay for and it is worth it.
Two top-tier hubs for custom setups I recommend from personal use:
Spokes and Nipples: Strength, Weight, and Style
Nipples and spokes for the rims can be a lighter build, stronger, and offer fun color-matching options. Also, when building a wheel from scratch, you get a hand-built wheel that will be brand new—never sitting around in a warehouse.
Rims: Alloy vs. Carbon
The rim can be a big game changer. Going from alloy to carbon is a great way to upgrade. Most rim companies have a lifetime warranty on rims as well, so if they do break from a big rock hit or whatever it may be, you can send the rim back and get a new one.
Great rim for a custom build—buy here to support the website and advice!
Carbon Wheels: Light, Strong, and Trail-Ready
Carbon wheels are much lighter and very strong. As long as you keep enough air pressure in the tire, they are my go-to choice for all trail riding. The only place I don’t use carbon is on a dirt jump frame, as tricks can displace your wheel often, with alloy bends from mishaps.