Individual spoke types

The laws of physics dictate that a wheel needs at least three spokes. Otherwise it would be unable to cope with the strains to which it is subjected and would give way due to a lack of stability. Beyond this technical necessity, there is a certain leeway for design. While things still revolve around function in the case of three- and four-spoke wheels, a larger number of spokes provides plenty of room for individuality and creative touches.

The specific spoke design provides clear visual distinction, influencing not only the appearance of the alloy wheel but also that of the entire vehicle. The design conveys desirable characteristics and strong emotions: elegance, momentum and performance.

The varieties of spoke types are as manifold as the ideas of the designers who shape them. Once the technical requirements have been taken into account, there are no obstacles or limits in terms of quantity, shape or grouping of spokes, meaning that an extensive range of different constellations is possible.

The first distinction between the spoke types is based on their number, for example five-spoke, six-spoke or eight-spoke designs. When there are too many spokes to count at a glance, we refer to a multi-spoke wheel. One special design here is the disc wheel, which has a closed surface with several symmetrically distributed openings.

The second means of differentiation is the arrangement of the spokes. In the case of double spokes, the spokes are arranged in pairs that are approximately parallel. In the case of V spokes, a pair of spokes opens up in a V shape from the center to the edge of the wheel rim. Double-spoke and V-spoke designs usually have a maximum of ten spokes. There are also cross-spoke designs, in which the individual spokes branch out. For technical reasons, these are only suitable for multi-spoke wheels. The bold appearance automatically catches people’s eyes and quickly diverts their attention from the vehicle – which is not always desirable. Nevertheless, cross-spoke patterns have their fans, and rightly so.

Those who want to make a sportier impression will tend to choose a larger number of spokes. Those with a preference for elegant and timeless designs are often better off with a smaller number of spokes on each wheel. Asymmetric double spokes are always eye-catching, while V spokes give the wheel a dynamic look. Whatever the buyer’s preferred spoke design, the RIAL portfolio has the alloy wheel to match.