Ruqayyah Snyder
Velocity rims are bicycle rims made by Velocity, a company that originated in Australia. Velocity rims were produced in Australia until 2016, when all operations were moved to a new factory in Grand Rapids, Michigan, US. Velocity rims made in Australia feature a raw joint sleeve, resulting in the nipples sitting deeper in the rim adjacent to the joint.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Velocity rims made in Australia | Before 2016 |
| Velocity rims made in the USA | Since 2016 |
| Difference between Australian and American Velocity rims | The Australian version has a raw joint sleeve, resulting in the nipples sitting deeper in the rim adjacent to the joint. The American version has counter-sunk holes in the joint sleeve, resulting in the same seat behavior for the nipples throughout the rim. |
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What You'll Learn
Velocity rims were made in Australia until 2016
The company opened a production facility in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in 2011, and five years later, it shut down production in Australia and moved all operations to the US. Velocity rims are now made in the US, with some sources noting that their rims are 'Made in the USA'.
There are some differences between the Australian-made and American-made Velocity rims. One user notes that the Australian version has a raw joint sleeve, resulting in the nipples sitting deeper in the rim adjacent to the joint. In contrast, the American version has counter-sunk holes in the joint sleeve, resulting in the same seat behaviour for the nipples throughout the entire rim.
Velocity rims are known for their strength and reliability, and they are used in various cycling applications, including road, mountain, cyclocross/gravel, and track cycling. The company also produces wheelsets for specific market segments, such as the Clydesdale line of wheelsets for riders weighing between 200-300 lbs.
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Velocity rims are now produced in the US
The US-made Velocity rims feature a distinct design, with counter-sunk holes in the joint sleeve, resulting in a consistent seat behaviour for the nipples throughout the entire rim. In contrast, the Australian-made rims had a raw joint sleeve, causing the nipples to sit deeper in the rim adjacent to the joint. This design variation is an important distinction for consumers, as it affects the functionality and performance of the rims.
The American DeepV ERD (Effective Rim Diameter) is 581 to the flat of a 12mm standard profile nipple, while the Australian DeepV ERD is 582. This slight difference in dimensions highlights the significance of consumers being aware of the production origin of their rims. It is worth noting that some users have observed looser eyelets and other minor issues with the Australian-made rims.
The shift in production to the US is a strategic move by Velocity. It enables them to centralize their operations and ensure a consistent supply chain. With all manufacturing now based in the US, Velocity can streamline their processes, maintain quality control, and efficiently distribute their products to the market. This decision is likely influenced by the desire to consolidate their operations and enhance their competitive position in the industry.
The US production of Velocity rims underscores the company's commitment to delivering high-quality products to its customers. By establishing a localized manufacturing base, they can respond more agilely to market demands, refine their production techniques, and solidify their presence in the American market. This evolution in Velocity's manufacturing strategy demonstrates their adaptability and customer-centric approach, ensuring that their rims remain a trusted choice for cyclists and enthusiasts alike.
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The Australian version had a raw joint sleeve
Velocity rims were introduced in the 1970s, and the Australian version, which was manufactured in the country, featured a unique design element: a raw joint sleeve. This design choice was specific to the Velocity rims made in Australia and set them apart from their counterparts produced elsewhere.
The raw joint sleeve on the Australian Velocity rims was a distinctive feature that contributed to the overall aesthetic and performance characteristics of these wheels. While the specific reasons for adopting this design element in Australia may not be readily available, we can speculate on some potential advantages that this feature may have offered.
Firstly, a raw joint sleeve implies that the sleeve connecting the rim segments was left in its untreated state. This could suggest that the sleeve was made from a material that could be welded or joined without the need for additional finishing processes, streamlining manufacturing and reducing costs. Additionally, leaving the joint sleeve untreated might have provided a more seamless and sleek appearance, appealing to those seeking a particular aesthetic for their vehicles.
Another possibility is that the raw joint sleeve may have offered some performance benefits. The untreated sleeve could have provided a more secure and rigid connection between the rim segments, potentially enhancing the structural integrity of the wheel. This could have been particularly beneficial for racing or high-performance applications where wheel strength and durability are critical.
It's important to note that the raw joint sleeve design was specific to the Australian-made Velocity rims and may have been influenced by local manufacturing capabilities, design preferences, or performance requirements unique to the Australian market. This variation in design showcases how unique characteristics can emerge when products are adapted for specific regions or markets.
While the raw joint sleeve was a defining feature of the Australian Velocity rims, it is just one aspect that contributed to the overall reputation and popularity of these wheels. The Velocity brand has become associated with quality and performance, and the Australian version likely played a significant role in establishing that reputation.
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The American version has counter-sunk holes in the joint sleeve
Velocity rims are bicycle rims manufactured by Velocity USA, Inc. While Velocity rims were previously manufactured in Australia, the company has since moved all operations to a new factory in the US.
The Australian and American versions of Velocity rims differ in the design of their joint sleeves. The Australian version features a raw joint sleeve, with the nipples sitting deeper in the rim adjacent to the joint. In contrast, the American version has counter-sunk holes in the joint sleeve, resulting in a consistent seat position for the nipples throughout the entire rim. This design variation means that the American-made Velocity rims are not directly interchangeable with their Australian-made counterparts, and users must be mindful of the different ERDs (Effective Rim Diameter) when replacing rims or building wheels.
The counter-sunk holes in the American version's joint sleeve offer several advantages. Firstly, they ensure that the nipples sit at the same height across the entire rim, providing a uniform appearance and potentially enhancing the wheel's aesthetic appeal. Secondly, the counter-sunk design may improve the structural integrity of the rim by allowing for a more secure and consistent seating of the nipples. This even positioning of the nipples can distribute the tension more evenly, potentially reducing the risk of uneven stress points that could lead to rim warping or failure.
The counter-sunk holes also have implications for the measurement and compatibility of the rims. As mentioned earlier, the American and Australian versions have different ERDs due to the distinct nipple seating depths. This difference in ERDs means that builders and riders need to be mindful when replacing or sourcing rims, as mixing the two versions on the same wheel could result in an unbalanced and unsafe ride. Additionally, the counter-sunk holes in the American version may require specific tools for accurate measurement and installation, ensuring precise drilling and compatibility with the chosen bolts or screws.
While the counter-sunk holes offer benefits, it's worth noting that the quality and precision of Velocity rims, regardless of their country of origin, have been a topic of discussion among cyclists and mechanics. Some users have reported issues with loose eyelets on the Australian version, while others have praised the overall performance and availability of Velocity rims. The availability of Velocity-branded components, such as skewers, also adds to the appeal of the rims, ensuring compatibility and a cohesive build.
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Velocity rims are handmade and built for strength and reliability
Velocity has long been associated with high-quality, fully customisable wheelsets. The company's commitment to real-world applications and its focus on providing reliable and robust products have earned it a loyal customer base. Velocity rims are built and tensioned by hand, ensuring a level of craftsmanship that machine-made rims may lack.
The company's product line-up reflects its focus on strength and reliability. For example, the Blunt line of mountain wheelsets offers incredible durability, with shorter and thicker sidewalls that pair well with low-pressure, tubeless tires. Similarly, the Clydesdale line caters to riders with a certain weight, offering reliable and robust wheels for those in the 200-300 lb range.
The differences between the Australian and American-made Velocity rims are not just geographical. The Australian version features a raw joint sleeve, resulting in deeper-seated nipples adjacent to the joint. In contrast, the American version has counter-sunk holes in the joint sleeve, creating a consistent seat for the nipples throughout the rim.
Despite the production shift to the US, Velocity rims continue to be a trusted choice for cyclists worldwide, known for their strength, reliability, and handcrafted quality.
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Frequently asked questions
Velocity rims have been around since at least 1984, but it is unclear exactly when they started making rims in Australia.
Velocity shut down production in Australia in 2016 and moved all operations to Grand Rapids, Michigan.
The Australian version has a raw joint sleeve, resulting in the nipples sitting deeper in the rim adjacent to the joint. The American version has counter-sunk holes in the joint sleeve, resulting in the same seat behaviour for the nipples throughout the entire rim.
