Can you tell me about the front MTB disc wheel please?

JaiRo
JaiRo Posts: 64
edited January 2012 in MTB workshop & tech
Hey guys,

so Im after a new front wheel for my MTB but when I look at wheels, they dont have the disc on them.

Why is this and what do I need to consider before buying a wheel? Ive had a play with the current disc hub wheel Im to replace but the disc is stuck to it and I cant find a way to undo screws to take it off and transfer it to another wheel.

I have a spare front wheel from a v brake bike, is there a way to use this wheel on a disc hub?

If not, will just buy a new front wheel but dont have a clue where to start.

thanks in advance for your help.
Scott Aspect 40 2011

Comments

  • nicklouse
    nicklouse Posts: 50,675
    The discs are brake specific not hub.

    Have a look on Parktools for the fittings. Either bolt on or spline and lock ring fitting.

    And only with a wheel rebuild. Not worth it.
    "Do not follow where the path may lead, Go instead where there is no path, and Leave a Trail."
    Parktools :?:SheldonBrown
  • JaiRo
    JaiRo Posts: 64
    Thanks nick. Ive had a look at the hub service area but Im still non the wiser.

    When you say the discs are brake specific, when I buy a front wheel, Id also need to buy discs that are compatible with the brakes on the bike?
    Scott Aspect 40 2011
  • benpinnick
    benpinnick Posts: 4,148
    What he means is:

    There are two ways a disc fits a hub: 1 called center lock, which has a splined ring in the center of the disc which threads onto the hub to hold the disc (commonly shimano hubs) and one that is held on with 6 small bolts. If you cant see the 6 small bolts you (almost) certainly have centerlock.

    The discs are brake specific in size only. On the side of the disc will probably be etched a size, 160, 180 or 185 most likely. You need to have the right size disc and the right fitting. If you get a new front wheel with the same fitting, the disc should swap over.
    A Flock of Birds
    + some other bikes.
  • nicklouse
    nicklouse Posts: 50,675
    JaiRo wrote:
    Thanks nick. Ive had a look at the hub service area but Im still non the wiser.

    When you say the discs are brake specific, when I buy a front wheel, Id also need to buy discs that are compatible with the brakes on the bike?
    Read

    http://www.parktool.com/blog/repair-hel ... stallation

    You may not need to buy anything. Or maybe an adaptor. It depends on what you have and what you get.
    "Do not follow where the path may lead, Go instead where there is no path, and Leave a Trail."
    Parktools :?:SheldonBrown
  • JaiRo
    JaiRo Posts: 64
    ahaaaaaa, Im starting to see what you mean. Thank you both.

    These are the brakes I have

    Front Brake: Shimano BR-M416A / Mechanical Disc with 160mm rotor

    So I see Id need this http://www.parktool.com/product/cassett ... -tool-FR-5, if I want to transfer the disc onto another wheel.

    Looking more on vids, I think theres a possibility my wheel can get 'trued'. Ive inspected the wheel are there are no cracks or sharp edges which is a relief, cheaper to do and less hassle.

    Luckily Im off to an Evans work shop this sun to learn about basics so will get it done then.

    Still, would be nice to know about the wheel mechanism.
    Scott Aspect 40 2011

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