Types of alloy wheels for Royal Enfield

Royal Enfield motorcycles come with various alloy wheels that suit different riding styles and preferences. Below are some of the most popular types of alloy wheels for Royal Enfield:

Cast alloy wheels:

These are the most commonly used alloy wheels on Royal Enfield bikes. They are made by pouring molten aluminum into a mold, a process that gives the wheels strength and durability. Cast alloy wheels are affordable, lightweight, and resistant to corrosion. These features make them popular among motorcycle lovers. However, these wheels are not as flexible and are prone to cracking when faced with a hard impact.
Forged alloy wheels:

Forged alloy wheels are made from a single piece of aluminum that has been heated and compressed. This process results in a more durable and stronger wheel with a high strength-to-weight ratio. Forged alloy wheels are lighter than cast wheels, which enhances the bike's handling, acceleration, and braking. Additionally, forged wheels are more flexible, which allows them to absorb impacts from rough roads or potholes. These wheels are mostly found on high-performance Royal Enfield bikes.
Split-spoke wheels:

These wheels are designed with a unique pattern of spokes that creates two separate groups. The split design offers more strength and stability to the wheel. Split-spoke wheels are suitable for off-road riding, as they can withstand the stress and strain of uneven terrains. Additionally, these wheels provide better braking performance and handling, making them popular among adventure riders and off-road enthusiasts.
Five-spoke wheels:

Five-spoke wheels have a simple and classic design with five spokes connecting the hub and the rim. This design offers a good balance between strength and weight, making the wheels suitable for various riding styles. These wheels are often preferred for street riding and touring due to their stability and smooth ride.
Ten-spoke wheels:

Ten-spoke wheels have a similar design to five-spoke wheels, but they feature double the number of spokes. The increased number of spokes offers additional strength and stability to the wheels. Ten-spoke wheels are suitable for high-speed riding, making them popular among sports riders and racers.

Specifications and maintenance of alloy wheels for Royal Enfield

Alloy wheels for Royal Enfield motorcycles are precision-engineered components that vary based on the motorcycle model. Nevertheless, here are some general specifications:

Size:

The diameter of the alloy wheels ranges from 17 to 19 inches, with a width of 2.5 to 3.5 inches. The size varies depending on the Royal Enfield model.
Material:

The alloy wheels are made of aluminum or magnesium alloys, which offer a good strength-to-weight ratio, improving the motorcycle's handling and acceleration.
Design:

Royal Enfield alloy wheels feature a spoke or cast wheel design. The design is not only aesthetically pleasing but also ensures even weight distribution and strength.
Finish:

The alloy wheels have a polished, anodized, or painted finish, which offers durability and resistance to corrosion and wear.
Load capacity:

The alloy wheels are designed to support a load of 200 to 300 kg, which is the weight of the motorcycle and the rider with additional luggage.
Tire size:

The recommended tire size for the alloy wheels varies based on the motorcycle model but is generally 100/90-18 for the front wheels and 130/80-18 for the rear wheels.

Royal Enfield alloy wheel maintenance requirements:

1. Clean the alloy wheels using a soft brush, mild soap, and water to remove dirt and brake dust regularly or after riding in wet or muddy conditions.
2. Inspect the alloy wheels for damage, such as cracks, dents, or scratches, especially after riding on rough roads or off-road.
3. Repair minor damages, such as scratches or small dents, using touch-up paint or alloy wheel repair kits. In case of major damages, replace the affected alloy wheel.
4. Ensure that the alloy wheel nuts are properly tightened to the recommended torque specifications using a torque wrench. Re-tighten the nuts in case of loosening due to regular use or impact.
5. Rotate the tires regularly to promote even wear and prolong tire life. The front tires should be moved to the back wheels and vice versa after covering the recommended distance.
6. Replace the tires when the tread depth reaches the minimum limit or when they show signs of damage or wear.

How to choose alloy wheels for royal enfield

Before purchasing Royal Enfield alloy wheels for sale, buyers should consider the following factors to ensure they meet customer needs.

Load capacity

The wheel's load capacity must be compatible with the motorcycle's weight. Royal Enfield bikes are heavy, so the alloys should be able to withstand their weight without damage.
Fitment

The alloy wheels must be compatible with the Royal Enfield model's specifications in terms of size, tire type, and brake system configuration.
Durability

Royal Enfield alloy wheels should be durable and resistant to damage. They should be suitable for all types of roads and weather conditions.
Design

The design of the alloy wheels should match the Royal Enfield motorcycle's style and image. Buyers can choose from various spoke and wheel designs to suit different models and personal preferences.
Brand reputation

Buyers should purchase alloy wheels from well-known and reputable brands to ensure product quality and after-sales service. They can refer to online reviews and evaluations to understand the experiences and opinions of other users.
Price

Royal Enfield alloy wheels are available at different prices based on brand, model, and features. Buyers should compare multiple options and choose products that offer the best value for money based on their needs and budget.

How to Replace Alloy Wheels for Royal Enfield

Replacing the alloy wheel can be a DIY task if the necessary skills have been acquired. Below are the steps for replacing the front and rear wheels, but first, here are the tools needed for the replacement:

Socket set
Torque wrench
New wheel (alloy wheel for Royal Enfield)
New wheel bearings (if required)
Wheel spacer (if required)
Royal Enfield tool kit or adjustable wrenches

Now to the replacement process:

Park the motorcycle on a level ground.
Put it in gear or engage the brake to prevent it from rolling.
Use a center stand or a paddock stand to ensure the motorcycle is stable and the wheel being replaced is off the ground.
Loosen the axle nuts or bolts using the Royal Enfield toolkit or adjustable wrenches. This may require some force, as these fasteners are usually tightened to a high torque.
Once loosened, use a socket set to remove the nuts or bolts completely.
For the front wheel, carefully lift the handlebars and pull out the axle from one side. For the rear wheel, slide the axle out of the wheel.
Now, remove the old alloy wheel and replace it with the new one.
If the new wheel requires wheel bearings or spacers, install them before mounting the wheel.
Once the wheel is in place, reinsert the axle and tighten the nuts or bolts to the specified torque.
For the front wheel, push the forks together to ensure proper alignment before tightening the axle nuts. For the rear wheel, ensure the swingarm and wheel alignment are correct.
Once the proper alignment and support are confirmed, fully tighten the axle nuts or bolts.

Finally, remove the motorcycle from the center stand or paddock stand, and it is ready to hit the road.

FAQ

Q1: Are alloy wheels better than spoke wheels for Royal Enfield?

A1: It depends on the buyer's needs. Alloy wheels suit off-road conditions and are low-maintenance. Spoke wheels are stronger and more durable, especially in rough terrains.

Q2: Can custom sizes of alloy wheels be fitted on Royal Enfield motorcycles?

A2: Custom sizes can be fitted, but it is advisable to use sizes compatible with the motorcycle's specifications to ensure safety and performance.

Q3: How often should the alloy wheels of a Royal Enfield be checked?

A3: The wheels should be checked regularly, preferably before every ride, to ensure they are in good condition, free from cracks and properly aligned.