Caption: The 2023 Apollo City Pro rides smoothly on tubeless, self-healing pneumatic tires
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Electric scooters offer such an incredibly convenient way to get around that it’s easy to ride them without ever thinking about how they work – until something goes wrong, that is. And unsurprisingly, flat tires are the most common problem reported by electric scooter riders – by a huge margin. If we take the wisdom about prevention and cures to heart as riders, we’ll probably want to learn how to keep our scooter’s tires in good working order. The good news is that tire care doesn’t require a tremendous amount of know-how or expertise, and you can avoid most common tire problems with simple routines like checking tire pressure and topping off when low. We might also tend to take tires for granted when shopping for a new electric scooter, ignoring crucial differences between them. However, the right tires can make all the difference in terms of performance, comfort, and safety. In this complete guide, we will explore everything you need to know about electric scooter tires, helping you make an informed decision when choosing the right ones for your ride.
Caption: Segway Ninebot’s E2 uses foam-filled airless solid tires for a less vibration A Guide to Different Types of Electric Scooter Tires When it comes to electric scooter tires, there are several options available. The most common types are pneumatic tires with tubes, tubeless tires, airless solid tires, and honeycomb tires. Each type has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, so it's essential to understand their characteristics before making a decision. Pneumatic Tires (Tubed) Pneumatic tires are similar to traditional bicycle tires and require inflation with air. They offer a smooth and comfortable ride, thanks to the air-filled chambers, or inner tubes, inside that act as cushions, absorbing bumps and vibrations from the road. However, pneumatic tires are prone to punctures, requiring regular maintenance and occasional replacements.
Caption: The Apollo City uses self-healing tubeless tires for maximum comfort and shock absorption Tubeless Tires Tubeless tires, on other hand, function more like car tires (and increasingly more bike tires), with no inner tube to hold the air. Instead the bead of the tire forms a tight seal with the wheel rim, holding the air inside. All tubeless tires have some degree of puncture resistance, but those marked as “self-healing” contain an extra layer of sealant that heals punctures immediately so that little to no air is lost. Meet Apollo Gp: the ultimate commuter scooter with self-healing tires Solid Rubber Tires Airless rubber solid tires are maintenance-free but they do not provide much traction or shock absorption. Made of solid rubber, these tires eliminate fear of punctures and the need for inflation. But their lack of give isn’t worth the trade-off for most riders. Caption: Unagi’s Model One uses vented solid tires to help dissipate the effect of small bumps in the road Vented, Honeycomb, and Foam-filled Solid Tires Honeycomb, vented, or foam-filled solid tires strike a balance between comfort and durability. These tires feature a unique solid structure with a series of vents or hexagonal cells that provide cushioning and shock absorption. More solid tires these days are often filled with foam for extra cushioning. With these tires, riders can enjoy a smoother ride while reducing the risk of flats. Choosing the Right Tires for Your Electric Scooter Choosing the right tires for your electric scooter depends on various factors such as your riding style, the terrain you'll encounter, and the desired level of comfort. If you frequently ride on rough or uneven surfaces, pneumatic tires with a larger diameter may be the best option as they provide better shock absorption. The air-filled chambers inside these tires act as cushions, ensuring a comfortable ride even on bumpy roads. For urban commuting and smooth surfaces, airless solid tires or honeycomb tires offer a maintenance-free and reliable solution. Airless solid tires, with their solid rubber construction, are highly durable and can handle different terrains without the risk of punctures. Honeycomb tires, on the other hand, provide a balance between comfort and durability, making them a popular choice for riders who encounter a mix of smooth and uneven surfaces. Consider your specific needs and preferences before making a decision. If you prioritize convenience and peace of mind, airless solid tires may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you value a smooth and comfortable ride, pneumatic tires or honeycomb tires might be the better option.
Caption: Fluid Freeride’s Vista is a commuter scooter with solid tires for a no maintenance option Understanding the Pros and Cons of Pneumatic Tires Pneumatic tires have been widely used in the electric scooter industry for their excellent shock absorption and comfortable ride. The air-filled chambers inside these tires act as cushions, absorbing bumps and vibrations from the road, resulting in a smoother and more enjoyable ride. Riders can confidently navigate through uneven surfaces, knowing that the tires will provide the necessary suspension. However, pneumatic tires are more susceptible to flats and punctures compared to other types of tires. The air-filled chambers make them more vulnerable to sharp objects on the road, requiring regular maintenance and occasional replacements. If you frequently ride in areas with debris or rough surfaces, the risk of punctures may be a significant concern. However, self-healing air-filled tires like those on the Apollo Pro and Apollo City Pro really do work as advertised, giving you peace of mind on rough roads or roads filled with debris, while not forcing you to compromise ride quality at the expense of safety and security. Demystifying Electric Scooter Tire Sizes and Treads Big vs Small Tires: Which is Right for Your Electric Scooter? The size of your electric scooter tires can significantly impact your riding experience. Larger tires generally offer better shock absorption and stability, making them suitable for off-road or rough terrain riding. In contrast, smaller tires offer increased maneuverability and are ideal for urban settings with smoother surfaces. Consider your intended use and riding conditions when selecting the appropriate tire size for your electric scooter Maintaining and Caring for Your Electric Scooter Tires Proper maintenance and care are vital to ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of your electric scooter tires. Regularly inspect your tires for signs of wear, such as cracks or bulges, and replace them if necessary. Keep an eye on the tire pressure, whether using pneumatic or airless solid tires, as improper inflation can impact performance and safety. Additionally, clean the tires regularly to remove any debris or particles that could affect traction. Expert Tips for Maximizing the Lifespan of Electric Scooter Tires Understanding Weight Limits and Electric Scooter Tires Electric scooter tires are designed to support a specific weight limit. Exceeding this limit can lead to premature wear, decreased performance, and potentially dangerous situations. Be aware of your electric scooter's weight limit and ensure that you and any additional cargo remain within the recommended range. This simple preventive measure will help extend the lifespan of your tires and keep you safe on your rides. How Long Can You Expect Electric Scooter Tires to Last? The lifespan of electric scooter tires varies depending on several factors, including the tire type, riding conditions, and maintenance. Pneumatic tires typically last between 500 to 1500 miles, while airless solid tires and honeycomb tires can endure anywhere from 1000 to 3000 miles. Regularly inspecting your tires and replacing them when necessary will help you maximize their lifespan and ensure optimal performance. Fixing a Flat Tire on Your Electric Scooter Experiencing a flat tire can be frustrating, but with a few simple steps, you can get back on the road quickly. Start by safely stopping your scooter and assessing the damage. If you have pneumatic tires with tubes, locate the puncture, remove the inner tube, and patch or replace it. Airless solid tires and honeycomb solid tires are typically puncture-resistant, negating the need for immediate repairs. But they are prone to flat spots and other kinds of damage that can render them useless. Tubeless tires can often be repaired with a small patch or piece of butyl rubber that seals up the hole immediately. Learn how to change and fix electric scooter tires with our handy guide If you are looking for more details, kindly visit nedong. Keeping Your Electric Scooter Tires Properly Inflated Proper tire inflation is crucial for performance, safety, and comfort. For pneumatic tires, regularly check and maintain the recommended tire pressure using a reliable pressure gauge. Underinflated tires can compromise handling and increase the risk of flats, while overinflated tires may result in a harsh ride and reduced traction. Airless solid tires and honeycomb tires do not require inflation but should still be inspected for any visible damage or wear. By understanding the different types of electric scooter tires, choosing the right size and tread pattern for your riding needs, and properly maintaining your tires, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable riding experience on your electric scooter. Whether you prefer the comfort of pneumatic tires, the convenience of airless solid tires, or the balance of honeycomb tires, selecting the right tires will enhance your journey and keep you rolling smoothly. Read our article about electric scooter tire pressure and ride with confidence!
One question that we get asked often is: “which scooter wheel size should I get”, or “what's the difference between this wheel and that wheel”?
It’s an important part of your scooter to get right. Buy the wrong size and they won’t be compatible with your setup, but get the right size and you’ll have a smooth, safe and fun riding experience.
Here at Rideminded, we want to help you make the best choices for your scooter. After reading this guide, you’ll understand the ins and outs of the scooter wheel. This way, you can make a more informed decision when putting together your setup, and be better prepared to avoid any common pitfalls when it comes to scooter wheel sizes.
You’ll also discover the best scooter wheels for beginner and advanced riders, and find answers to some frequently asked questions.
Scooter wheels can be broken down into five elements:
Learn what they all mean and what you need to be aware of below:
Diameter is the overall size of the wheel. As the diameter increases, the slower you will get to speed, but the maximum speed you can reach is higher.
There are five main diameters when it comes to scooter wheels:
These small wheels are a remnant from the days in which companies adapted inline skate wheels for use with scooters.
100mm wheels tend to feature plastic cores and basic bearings, although you can find the odd 100mm with a metal core (we will get to core material later). You will most often find these wheels as stock items on low-end or beginner complete scooters, or those that have been intended as ‘scooter-to-school’ completes.
These wheels are fine if you are a very young rider just starting out, but for older or more experienced riders, these wheels are best swapped for one of the bigger options.
This wheel size is the scooter rider’s staple and most standard wheel on the market. 110mms are the go-to wheels for the majority of riders out there, as they fill a solid middle ground in terms of speed, durability, weight, cost and style.
There are 110mm wheels that cater to both park and street riders, making them by far the most versatile and well catered for wheel size.
These wheels also fit on 99% of all complete and aftermarket forks and decks, so you really can’t go wrong!
Alternatively, if you’re looking for some very specific advantages that suit your riding style however, some of the bigger wheels may suit you better.
At Rideminded, we stock 110mm wheels in a range of colours and designs, like this fun Juicy watermelon option!
115mm wheels are a little less common than the other wheel sizes, but have recently grown in popularity among riders with hybrid street or park styles.
Whilst they’re a little more weighty than 110mm wheels, 115mm provide a slight increase to speed and control when making sharp turns and executing technical tricks.
If that’s your style, check out these Oath Binary black and blue wheels.
Fast and functional. Originally designed for bigger, older riders with flow styles, 120mm wheels provide a solid amount of speed and are great if you want to go charging around the skate park at full speed!
The biggest drawback to 120mm wheels has historically been the weight. Bigger wheels are heavier, and having a lightweight setup is a key component to throwing down many high-level tricks at the skate park.
That being said, 120mm wheels have recently been taken back to the drawing board, undergoing a renaissance of sorts with select brands pushing them back into the spotlight by heavily reducing the weight of the cores.
With ramps in skate parks getting bigger and riders constantly pushing themselves to achieve greater air time, it only makes sense that bigger wheels will most certainly play their part in years to come.
If you’re interested in buying 120mm wheels, these Oath Bermuda anodised satin black wheels may be ideal for you.
As with 120mm wheels, these wheels are built for speed, and we really do mean it! 125mm size scooter wheels are essentially an extreme version of 120mm wheels and come with all the same pros and cons, just amplified.
125mm wheels are best suited to high-level riders that know they want them. These are also one of the only wheels types that are not, yet, progressing toward universal compatibility with aftermarket forks and decks.
This can make them difficult to fit onto a given setup and, unless you’re willing to go out and buy new parts specifically to facilitate these giants, it’s better to wait unless you’re willing to commit to a full setup change.
However, they are the fastest scooter wheels you can get your hands on. and If you are you’re willing to accommodate the extra weight, they’ll have you absolutely blasting around the skate park!
Why not take a look at our urbanArtt civic 125mm black wheels?
When choosing the material that makes up the inner core of your wheel, stick with metal cores… just take our word for it.
Plastic core wheels are a remnant of the inline era of scooter wheels. These are often cheaper to produce and are sometimes found as stock parts on low-end complete scooters.
These wheels were designed more for ‘scooter-to-school’ audiences, although they can be used by riders just starting out on their scootering journey.
You should look at upgrading to metal cores as soon as you start any kind of ramp or trick riding. These wheel cores are a lot weaker than their metal core counterparts and are not up to scratch when it comes to trick riding.
Metal Core
Metal cores are the go-to wheel core for scooter riders. Almost all complete stunt scooters come fitted with these and, if you’re looking for an upgrade, metal cores are usually your best bet!
The thickness of a wheel’s core determines the forks and decks with which your wheels are compatible.
Because thickness is directly related to fork size, you need to know that the two most common fork sizes on the market are that cater to 24mm and 30mm wheels.
The scale that tells you how soft or hard the rubber of the wheel is.
Scooter wheels come in various levels of PU, starting from 85A and working up to 91A with 88A being the standard.
The lower the number on the PU scale, the softer the wheel. A softer wheel provides more grip, so you'll slide out less, but you won’t be able to generate as much speed.
Street style riders tackling rough terrain favour softer wheels due to their greater grip, whereas park riders who are riding smoother terrain in general, will often opt for a wheel in the middle of the scale as it provides both solid grip and ample amounts of speed. 88A is the most commonly used hardness.
The thicker the PU, the more rubber will be in contact with the ground, therefore the more grip you will have. This comes at the cost of a heavier wheel.
There are four major thicknesses on the market right now: 24mm, 26mm, 28mm and 30mm.
The thinner the wheel the more streamlined they will be, allowing for greater speed, but with less control or grip while turning. Thinner wheels are favoured by park riders who are looking to reduce the overall weight of their scooter in order to perform tricks where speed is a necessity.
Thicker wheels on the other hand, are ideal for those who want to carve through tight transitions and ride fast in both the park and streets.
The bearing is an element set within the wheel core that helps provide a smooth motion and reduces friction between moving parts.
Bearings come with an ABEC rating, although this is currently the established way of determining the speed provided, it is a controversial system that many do not think is overly accurate. The ABEC rating is determined by measuring the amount of noise created by a bearing. The idea is that a noisier bearing is slightly rougher while a quieter bearing is smoother and therefore “better”.
The ABEC rating for scooter bearings runs from 3 up to the supposed 11, although the legitimacy of 11s is up for debate.
The most common bearings you will find are ABEC 5, ABEC 7 and ABEC 9.
The scale runs with the rule, the higher the number, the faster the bearing, but the weaker and more prone to breaking.
Some brands like Oath Components and urbanArtt do not use ABEC rated bearings and have instead developed their own bearings specifically for scootering. Oath wheels come with Oath Fidelity bearings and urbanArtt wheels come with Lateral bearings.
For most people, these are the specifications for a standard scooter wheel:
However, other riders may require a slightly different setup:
If you’re just starting out, or buying a scooter for a young person just getting into scootering, then choose a small wheel. Usually, beginners have smaller decks, and smaller wheels make it easier to flick the deck round and do tricks.
Medium and large sized wheels are appropriate for advanced riders, as a larger deck means you’ll need a larger wheel. They also mean you can ride a lot faster, and are suitable if you’ve got a few years of experience under your belt.
These days, most scooters are compatible with both 110mm and 100mm wheels. However, you can’t put larger wheels than this on some decks. Be sure to check before you buy, or contact us if you need more help.
Scooter wheels will rarely break and become unusable, but they will wear down over time, meaning it’s advisable to replace them. For example, some parts of the wheel may have become flat, or they may slightly crack in some areas. If this is affecting your ride, it may be time to look for a replacement.
Hopefully, this guide has helped you to learn a bit more about the range of scooter wheels and sizes that exist out there, and has put you in good stead to make an informed choice about which wheels you'll be shredding next.
Find My Next Stunt Scooter Wheels at Rideminded
Caption: The 2023 Apollo City Pro rides smoothly on tubeless, self-healing pneumatic tires
Electric scooters offer such an incredibly convenient way to get around that it’s easy to ride them without ever thinking about how they work – until something goes wrong, that is.
And unsurprisingly, flat tires are the most common problem reported by electric scooter riders – by a huge margin. If we take the wisdom about prevention and cures to heart as riders, we’ll probably want to learn how to keep our scooter’s tires in good working order.
The good news is that tire care doesn’t require a tremendous amount of know-how or expertise, and you can avoid most common tire problems with simple routines like checking tire pressure and topping off when low.
We might also tend to take tires for granted when shopping for a new electric scooter, ignoring crucial differences between them. However, the right tires can make all the difference in terms of performance, comfort, and safety.
In this complete guide, we will explore everything you need to know about electric scooter tiresscooter tires, helping you make an informed decision when choosing the right ones for your ride.
Caption: Segway Ninebot’s E2 uses foam-filled airless solid tires for a less vibration
A Guide to Different Types of Electric Scooter Tires
When it comes to electric scooter tires, there are several options available. The most common types are pneumatic tires with tubes, tubeless tires, airless solid tires, and honeycomb tires. Each type has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, so it's essential to understand their characteristics before making a decision.
Pneumatic Tires (Tubed)
Pneumatic tires are similar to traditional bicycle tires and require inflation with air. They offer a smooth and comfortable ride, thanks to the air-filled chambers, or inner tubes, inside that act as cushions, absorbing bumps and vibrations from the road. However, pneumatic tires are prone to punctures, requiring regular maintenance and occasional replacements.
Caption: The Apollo City uses self-healing tubeless tires for maximum comfort and shock absorption
Tubeless Tires
Tubeless tires, on other hand, function more like car tires (and increasingly more bike tires), with no inner tube to hold the air. Instead the bead of the tire forms a tight seal with the wheel rim, holding the air inside. All tubeless tires have some degree of puncture resistance, but those marked as “self-healing” contain an extra layer of sealant that heals punctures immediately so that little to no air is lost.
Meet Apollo Gp: the ultimate commuter scooter with self-healing tires
Solid Rubber Tires
Airless rubber solid tires are maintenance-free but they do not provide much traction or shock absorption. Made of solid rubber, these tires eliminate fear of punctures and the need for inflation. But their lack of give isn’t worth the trade-off for most riders.
Caption: Unagi’s Model One uses vented solid tires to help dissipate the effect of small bumps in the road
Vented, Honeycomb, and Foam-filled Solid Tires
Honeycomb, vented, or foam-filled solid tires strike a balance between comfort and durability. These tires feature a unique solid structure with a series of vents or hexagonal cells that provide cushioning and shock absorption. More solid tires these days are often filled with foam for extra cushioning. With these tires, riders can enjoy a smoother ride while reducing the risk of flats.
Choosing the Right Tires for Your Electric Scooter
Choosing the right tires for your electric scooter depends on various factors such as your riding style, the terrain you'll encounter, and the desired level of comfort. If you frequently ride on rough or uneven surfaces, pneumatic tires with a larger diameter may be the best option as they provide better shock absorption. The air-filled chambers inside these tires act as cushions, ensuring a comfortable ride even on bumpy roads.
For urban commuting and smooth surfaces, airless solid tires or honeycomb tires offer a maintenance-free and reliable solution. Airless solid tires, with their solid rubber construction, are highly durable and can handle different terrains without the risk of punctures. Honeycomb tires, on the other hand, provide a balance between comfort and durability, making them a popular choice for riders who encounter a mix of smooth and uneven surfaces.
Consider your specific needs and preferences before making a decision. If you prioritize convenience and peace of mind, airless solid tires may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you value a smooth and comfortable ride, pneumatic tires or honeycomb tires might be the better option.
Caption: Fluid Freeride’s Vista is a commuter scooter with solid tires for a no maintenance option
Understanding the Pros and Cons of Pneumatic Tires
Pneumatic tires have been widely used in the electric scooter industry for their excellent shock absorption and comfortable ride. The air-filled chambers inside these tires act as cushions, absorbing bumps and vibrations from the road, resulting in a smoother and more enjoyable ride. Riders can confidently navigate through uneven surfaces, knowing that the tires will provide the necessary suspension.
However, pneumatic tires are more susceptible to flats and punctures compared to other types of tires. The air-filled chambers make them more vulnerable to sharp objects on the road, requiring regular maintenance and occasional replacements. If you frequently ride in areas with debris or rough surfaces, the risk of punctures may be a significant concern.
However, self-healing air-filled tires like those on the Apollo Pro and Apollo City Pro really do work as advertised, giving you peace of mind on rough roads or roads filled with debris, while not forcing you to compromise ride quality at the expense of safety and security.
Demystifying Electric Scooter Tire Sizes and Treads
Big vs Small Tires: Which is Right for Your Electric Scooter?
The size of your electric scooter tires can significantly impact your riding experience. Larger tires generally offer better shock absorption and stability, making them suitable for off-road or rough terrain riding. In contrast, smaller tires offer increased maneuverability and are ideal for urban settings with smoother surfaces. Consider your intended use and riding conditions when selecting the appropriate tire size for your electric scooter
Maintaining and Caring for Your Electric Scooter Tires
Proper maintenance and care are vital to ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of your electric scooter tires. Regularly inspect your tires for signs of wear, such as cracks or bulges, and replace them if necessary. Keep an eye on the tire pressure, whether using pneumatic or airless solid tires, as improper inflation can impact performance and safety. Additionally, clean the tires regularly to remove any debris or particles that could affect traction.
Expert Tips for Maximizing the Lifespan of Electric Scooter Tires
Understanding Weight Limits and Electric Scooter Tires
Electric scooter tires are designed to support a specific weight limit. Exceeding this limit can lead to premature wear, decreased performance, and potentially dangerous situations. Be aware of your electric scooter's weight limit and ensure that you and any additional cargo remain within the recommended range. This simple preventive measure will help extend the lifespan of your tires and keep you safe on your rides.
How Long Can You Expect Electric Scooter Tires to Last?
The lifespan of electric scooter tires varies depending on several factors, including the tire type, riding conditions, and maintenance. Pneumatic tires typically last between 500 to 1500 miles, while airless solid tires and honeycomb tires can endure anywhere from 1000 to 3000 miles. Regularly inspecting your tires and replacing them when necessary will help you maximize their lifespan and ensure optimal performance.
Fixing a Flat Tire on Your Electric Scooter
Experiencing a flat tire can be frustrating, but with a few simple steps, you can get back on the road quickly. Start by safely stopping your scooter and assessing the damage. If you have pneumatic tires with tubes, locate the puncture, remove the inner tube, and patch or replace it.
Airless solid tires and honeycomb solid tires are typically puncture-resistant, negating the need for immediate repairs. But they are prone to flat spots and other kinds of damage that can render them useless.
Tubeless tires can often be repaired with a small patch or piece of butyl rubber that seals up the hole immediately.
Learn how to change and fix electric scooter tires with our handy guide
Keeping Your Electric Scooter Tires Properly Inflated
Proper tire inflation is crucial for performance, safety, and comfort. For pneumatic tires, regularly check and maintain the recommended tire pressure using a reliable pressure gauge. Underinflated tires can compromise handling and increase the risk of flats, while overinflated tires may result in a harsh ride and reduced traction. Airless solid tires and honeycomb tires do not require inflation but should still be inspected for any visible damage or wear.
By understanding the different types of electric scooter tires, choosing the right size and tread pattern for your riding needs, and properly maintaining your tires, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable riding experience on your electric scooter. Whether you prefer the comfort of pneumatic tires, the convenience of airless solid tires, or the balance of honeycomb tires, selecting the right tires will enhance your journey and keep you rolling smoothly.
Read our article about electric scooter tire pressure and ride with confidence!
One question that we get asked often is: “which scooter wheel size should I get”, or “what's the difference between this wheel and that wheel”?
It’s an important part of your scooter to get right. Buy the wrong size and they won’t be compatible with your setup, but get the right size and you’ll have a smooth, safe and fun riding experience.
Here at Rideminded, we want to help you make the best choices for your scooter. After reading this guide, you’ll understand the ins and outs of the scooter wheel. This way, you can make a more informed decision when putting together your setup, and be better prepared to avoid any common pitfalls when it comes to scooter wheel sizes.
You’ll also discover the best scooter wheels for beginner and advanced riders, and find answers to some frequently asked questions.
Scooter wheels can be broken down into five elements:
Learn what they all mean and what you need to be aware of below:
Diameter is the overall size of the wheel. As the diameter increases, the slower you will get to speed, but the maximum speed you can reach is higher.
There are five main diameters when it comes to scooter wheels:
These small wheels are a remnant from the days in which companies adapted inline skate wheels for use with scooters.
100mm wheels tend to feature plastic cores and basic bearings, although you can find the odd 100mm with a metal core (we will get to core material later). You will most often find these wheels as stock items on low-end or beginner complete scooters, or those that have been intended as ‘scooter-to-school’ completes.
These wheels are fine if you are a very young rider just starting out, but for older or more experienced riders, these wheels are best swapped for one of the bigger options.
This wheel size is the scooter rider’s staple and most standard wheel on the market. 110mms are the go-to wheels for the majority of riders out there, as they fill a solid middle ground in terms of speed, durability, weight, cost and style.
There are 110mm wheels that cater to both park and street riders, making them by far the most versatile and well catered for wheel size.
These wheels also fit on 99% of all complete and aftermarket forks and decks, so you really can’t go wrong!
Alternatively, if you’re looking for some very specific advantages that suit your riding style however, some of the bigger wheels may suit you better.
At Rideminded, we stock 110mm wheels in a range of colours and designs, like this fun Juicy watermelon option!
115mm wheels are a little less common than the other wheel sizes, but have recently grown in popularity among riders with hybrid street or park styles.
Whilst they’re a little more weighty than 110mm wheels, 115mm provide a slight increase to speed and control when making sharp turns and executing technical tricks.
If that’s your style, check out these Oath Binary black and blue wheels.
Fast and functional. Originally designed for bigger, older riders with flow styles, 120mm wheels provide a solid amount of speed and are great if you want to go charging around the skate park at full speed!
The biggest drawback to 120mm wheels has historically been the weight. Bigger wheels are heavier, and having a lightweight setup is a key component to throwing down many high-level tricks at the skate park.
That being said, 120mm wheels have recently been taken back to the drawing board, undergoing a renaissance of sorts with select brands pushing them back into the spotlight by heavily reducing the weight of the cores.
With ramps in skate parks getting bigger and riders constantly pushing themselves to achieve greater air time, it only makes sense that bigger wheels will most certainly play their part in years to come.
If you’re interested in buying 120mm wheels, these Oath Bermuda anodised satin black wheels may be ideal for you.
As with 120mm wheels, these wheels are built for speed, and we really do mean it! 125mm size scooter wheels are essentially an extreme version of 120mm wheels and come with all the same pros and cons, just amplified.
125mm wheels are best suited to high-level riders that know they want them. These are also one of the only wheels types that are not, yet, progressing toward universal compatibility with aftermarket forks and decks.
This can make them difficult to fit onto a given setup and, unless you’re willing to go out and buy new parts specifically to facilitate these giants, it’s better to wait unless you’re willing to commit to a full setup change.
However, they are the fastest scooter wheels you can get your hands on. and If you are you’re willing to accommodate the extra weight, they’ll have you absolutely blasting around the skate park!
Why not take a look at our urbanArtt civic 125mm black wheels?
When choosing the material that makes up the inner core of your wheel, stick with metal cores… just take our word for it.
Plastic core wheels are a remnant of the inline era of scooter wheels. These are often cheaper to produce and are sometimes found as stock parts on low-end complete scooters.
These wheels were designed more for ‘scooter-to-school’ audiences, although they can be used by riders just starting out on their scootering journey.
You should look at upgrading to metal cores as soon as you start any kind of ramp or trick riding. These wheel cores are a lot weaker than their metal core counterparts and are not up to scratch when it comes to trick riding.
Metal Core
Metal cores are the go-to wheel core for scooter riders. Almost all complete stunt scooters come fitted with these and, if you’re looking for an upgrade, metal cores are usually your best bet!
The thickness of a wheel’s core determines the forks and decks with which your wheels are compatible.
Because thickness is directly related to fork size, you need to know that the two most common fork sizes on the market are that cater to 24mm and 30mm wheels.
The scale that tells you how soft or hard the rubber of the wheel is.
Scooter wheels come in various levels of PU, starting from 85A and working up to 91A with 88A being the standard.
The lower the number on the PU scale, the softer the wheel. A softer wheel provides more grip, so you'll slide out less, but you won’t be able to generate as much speed.
Street style riders tackling rough terrain favour softer wheels due to their greater grip, whereas park riders who are riding smoother terrain in general, will often opt for a wheel in the middle of the scale as it provides both solid grip and ample amounts of speed. 88A is the most commonly used hardness.
The thicker the PU, the more rubber will be in contact with the ground, therefore the more grip you will have. This comes at the cost of a heavier wheel.
There are four major thicknesses on the market right now: 24mm, 26mm, 28mm and 30mm.
The thinner the wheel the more streamlined they will be, allowing for greater speed, but with less control or grip while turning. Thinner wheels are favoured by park riders who are looking to reduce the overall weight of their scooter in order to perform tricks where speed is a necessity.
Thicker wheels on the other hand, are ideal for those who want to carve through tight transitions and ride fast in both the park and streets.
The bearing is an element set within the wheel core that helps provide a smooth motion and reduces friction between moving parts.
Bearings come with an ABEC rating, although this is currently the established way of determining the speed provided, it is a controversial system that many do not think is overly accurate. The ABEC rating is determined by measuring the amount of noise created by a bearing. The idea is that a noisier bearing is slightly rougher while a quieter bearing is smoother and therefore “better”.
The ABEC rating for scooter bearings runs from 3 up to the supposed 11, although the legitimacy of 11s is up for debate.
The most common bearings you will find are ABEC 5, ABEC 7 and ABEC 9.
The scale runs with the rule, the higher the number, the faster the bearing, but the weaker and more prone to breaking.
Some brands like Oath Components and urbanArtt do not use ABEC rated bearings and have instead developed their own bearings specifically for scootering. Oath wheels come with Oath Fidelity bearings and urbanArtt wheels come with Lateral bearings.
For most people, these are the specifications for a standard scooter wheel:
However, other riders may require a slightly different setup:
If you’re just starting out, or buying a scooter for a young person just getting into scootering, then choose a small wheel. Usually, beginners have smaller decks, and smaller wheels make it easier to flick the deck round and do tricks.
Medium and large sized wheels are appropriate for advanced riders, as a larger deck means you’ll need a larger wheel. They also mean you can ride a lot faster, and are suitable if you’ve got a few years of experience under your belt.
These days, most scooters are compatible with both 110mm and 100mm wheels. However, you can’t put larger wheels than this on some decks. Be sure to check before you buy, or contact us if you need more help.
Scooter wheels will rarely break and become unusable, but they will wear down over time, meaning it’s advisable to replace them. For example, some parts of the wheel may have become flat, or they may slightly crack in some areas. If this is affecting your ride, it may be time to look for a replacement.
Hopefully, this guide has helped you to learn a bit more about the range of scooter wheels and sizes that exist out there, and has put you in good stead to make an informed choice about which wheels you'll be shredding next.
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