|
|
 |
Robb Report MotorCycling Achievement in Design: Bespoke Wheels
|
|
|
|
|
|
Alpina’s wheels
Basem Wasef
02/01/2008
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
Spoked rims typically require a
cruel trade-off. Though the lacy intersection of thin spokes exude
nostalgia, the distinctive look is also associated with tube tires, a bygone
technology that exacerbates the gyroscopic effect by throwing weight to the
outside of the rim. And while sluggish handling might recall the harsh realities
of motorcycling’s past, who says you can’t have your cake and eat it, too?
 Works of art with a practical application,
Alpina’s wheels improve both performance and appearance. (Click image to enlarge)
Seeking to imbue the classic look with modern performance,
Italian manufacturer Alpina builds a line of spoked wheels that can be wrapped
with tubeless tires. The Alpina Tubeless A-System wheels milk maximum
performance from aggressive suspension and brake setups by reducing unsprung
weight, and can be configured to accommodate different rotor sizes and
positions. Alpina’s wheels boast playfully colorful styling, and were designed
specifically for Ducati’s SportClassic motorcycles. The line includes Tagged,
the gold-hubbed, black-spoked, and checkerboarded combination seen here.
Alloy hubs are milled from a single piece of aluminum, and
Alpina’s patented nipple design is constructed of zinc-chrome plated steel.
While the wheels maximize the effects of Ducati’s radially mounted floating
Brembo calipers and modern tire technology, perhaps the greatest advantage of
these intricately constructed wheels is that they combine low weight with the
visual delight of 36 double-butted stainless steel spokes. If you appreciate
seeing through your wheels, as well as your bike, you will appreciate the
aesthetic utility and design of these wheels.
www.alpinawheelsusa.com
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
; function voidFunc() { } voidFunc();)
