Introduction
Table of Contents
Getting Started
Communications
General Design
Chassis System
-Frame
-Axles
-Steering
-Suspension
-Wheel Type
---Purchase
---Construct Hybrid
---Make your Own
Drive Train
Shell/Body
Testing
Competition
Authors
Standards Index

Chassis Systems -- Wheel Type

The following activities and references will assist students in deciding which wheels have adequate strength and affordability and other desired properties.

The science of wheels 1 - How size affects friction and angular velocity
The science of wheels 2 - The relationship between number and size of spokes and forces on a wheel

One of the key components in the construction of any lightweight electric vehicle is finding wheels, which meet the braking criteria, set forth by most LEV programs. This critical aspect in building needs to be resolved early in the design and construction phases of the project. Unfortunately, the most desirable wheel types, 20 inch with internal brake hubs or disk brakes are very expensive. Prices range from $150 to $550 or more per wheel. Following are three possible sources of wheels:

Purchasing new and used wheels
Constructing a hybrid wheel from a bicycle rim and moped hub & spokes
Manufacture your own wheel
The relationship between number and size of spokes and forces on a wheel.