Honda SC450: Choosing The Best Supermoto Wheels

Choosing the right supermoto wheels for your Honda SC450 can dramatically enhance its performance and handling on the track or street. Supermoto wheels, typically smaller and wider than stock wheels, improve agility, grip, and overall control. However, with numerous options available, selecting the best set for your needs can be daunting. This guide explores key considerations for choosing supermoto wheels for your Honda SC450, ensuring you make an informed decision.

Understanding Supermoto Wheels

Supermoto wheels are specifically designed to enhance the performance of motorcycles converted for supermoto racing or riding. These wheels typically differ from stock wheels in several key aspects:

Size: Supermoto wheels are generally smaller in diameter, usually 17 inches, compared to the stock wheels of many motorcycles. This smaller size reduces the gyroscopic effect, making the bike more nimble and easier to turn.
Width: They are also wider than stock wheels to accommodate wider tires. Wider tires offer a larger contact patch with the road, increasing grip and stability, especially during cornering.
Material: Supermoto wheels are often made from lightweight materials such as aluminum or carbon fiber. Lightweight wheels reduce unsprung weight, which improves suspension performance and handling.

Why Upgrade to Supermoto Wheels?

Upgrading to supermoto wheels offers several advantages for Honda SC450 riders:

Enhanced Handling: The smaller diameter and wider tires significantly improve the bike's agility and responsiveness, making it easier to flick through corners.
Improved Grip: Wider tires provide a larger contact patch, enhancing grip on both paved and unpaved surfaces. This is particularly beneficial in supermoto racing, which often involves transitioning between asphalt and dirt sections.
Better Braking Performance: The increased grip allows for more aggressive braking, reducing stopping distances and improving overall control.
Aesthetic Appeal: Supermoto wheels give your bike a more aggressive and sporty look, enhancing its overall appearance.

Key Considerations When Choosing Supermoto Wheels for Your Honda SC450

When selecting supermoto wheels for your Honda SC450, several factors should be taken into account to ensure optimal performance and compatibility.

1. Wheel Size and Width

The most common size for supermoto wheels is 17 inches, but the width can vary depending on your riding style and tire preferences. A typical setup for a supermoto bike is a 17x3.5 inch front wheel and a 17x5.0 inch rear wheel. However, some riders prefer a wider rear wheel, such as a 17x5.5 inch, for even more grip.

Consider the following:

Front Wheel: A 17x3.5 inch front wheel is suitable for most riders and provides a good balance of agility and stability. If you prioritize quick turning and responsiveness, this is an excellent choice.
Rear Wheel: A 17x5.0 inch rear wheel offers ample grip for most supermoto applications. If you are an aggressive rider or plan to race, a 17x5.5 inch rear wheel may provide additional traction and stability.

2. Material

The material of the wheel significantly impacts its weight, strength, and overall performance. The two most common materials for supermoto wheels are aluminum and carbon fiber.

Aluminum Wheels: Aluminum wheels are a popular choice due to their excellent balance of strength, weight, and cost. They are durable enough to withstand the rigors of supermoto riding and racing, and they are available in a wide range of styles and finishes. Aluminum wheels are also relatively affordable compared to carbon fiber options.
Carbon Fiber Wheels: Carbon fiber wheels are the premium option for supermoto bikes. They are incredibly lightweight, which further reduces unsprung weight and improves handling. Carbon fiber wheels also offer excellent strength and stiffness. However, they are significantly more expensive than aluminum wheels and may be more susceptible to damage in a crash.

3. Hub and Bearing Quality

The hub and bearings are critical components of the wheel assembly. High-quality hubs and bearings ensure smooth rotation and reliable performance. Look for wheels with reputable hub brands and sealed bearings to minimize maintenance and extend the life of the wheels.

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Hub Brands: Some popular hub brands for supermoto wheels include Talon, Kite, and Haan. These brands are known for their quality and durability.
Sealed Bearings: Sealed bearings protect against dirt and moisture, which can cause premature wear and failure. Ensure the wheels you choose have sealed bearings for long-lasting performance.

4. Spoke and Nipple Quality

For spoked wheels, the quality of the spokes and nipples is essential for maintaining wheel strength and integrity. Look for wheels with high-quality stainless steel spokes and durable nipples.

Stainless Steel Spokes: Stainless steel spokes are resistant to corrosion and offer excellent strength. They are a reliable choice for supermoto wheels.
Durable Nipples: The nipples should be made from a durable material, such as brass or aluminum, and should be properly tightened to ensure the wheel remains true.

5. Compatibility

Ensure the supermoto wheels you choose are compatible with your Honda SC450. Check the wheel's specifications to verify that it fits your bike's axle size, brake rotor bolt pattern, and sprocket carrier. It is also essential to consider the offset of the wheels to ensure proper alignment and clearance with the suspension and frame.

Axle Size: Verify that the wheel's axle size matches your bike's axle size. Common axle sizes for supermoto bikes include 17mm, 20mm, and 25mm.
Brake Rotor Bolt Pattern: Ensure the wheel's brake rotor bolt pattern matches your bike's brake rotors. Most supermoto wheels use a standard bolt pattern, but it is always best to double-check.
Sprocket Carrier: The wheel should have a sprocket carrier that is compatible with your bike's sprocket. Some wheels come with a universal sprocket carrier, while others require a specific carrier for your bike model.
Offset: Check the offset of the wheels to ensure proper alignment and clearance. The offset is the distance between the wheel's mounting surface and its centerline. Incorrect offset can cause handling problems and premature wear on the suspension components.

6. Tire Selection

The tires you choose for your supermoto wheels will significantly impact their performance. Supermoto tires are typically wider and have a stickier compound than stock tires, providing more grip and better handling. Consider your riding style and the types of surfaces you will be riding on when selecting tires.

Tire Width: Choose a tire width that is appropriate for your wheel width. A 120/70-17 front tire and a 160/60-17 rear tire are common sizes for supermoto bikes.
Tire Compound: Select a tire compound that is suitable for your riding conditions. Softer compounds offer more grip but wear out faster, while harder compounds last longer but provide less grip.

7. Budget

Supermoto wheels can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars per set. Set a budget before you start shopping to narrow your options and avoid overspending.

Aluminum Wheels: Aluminum wheels are generally more affordable than carbon fiber wheels. A good set of aluminum supermoto wheels can cost between $800 and $1500.
Carbon Fiber Wheels: Carbon fiber wheels are a premium option and can cost between $2000 and $4000 per set.

Popular Supermoto Wheel Brands

Several reputable brands offer high-quality supermoto wheels for the Honda SC450. Some popular brands include:

Excel: Excel wheels are known for their durability and performance. They are a popular choice among supermoto racers and riders.
Warp 9: Warp 9 wheels offer a good balance of quality and affordability. They are a great option for riders on a budget.
SM Pro: SM Pro wheels are known for their strength and reliability. They are a popular choice for riders who demand the best performance from their wheels.

Installation

Installing supermoto wheels on your Honda SC450 is a relatively straightforward process, but it is essential to follow the proper steps to ensure safe and reliable performance. If you are not comfortable performing the installation yourself, it is best to have a qualified mechanic do it.

Steps for Installation:

Remove the Stock Wheels: Start by removing the stock wheels from your bike. Loosen the axle nuts and remove the wheels from the swingarm and forks.
Install the Supermoto Wheels: Install the supermoto wheels in the reverse order of removal. Ensure the wheels are properly aligned and the axle nuts are tightened to the manufacturer's specifications.
Install the Brake Rotors and Sprocket: Install the brake rotors and sprocket onto the supermoto wheels. Use new bolts and torque them to the manufacturer's specifications.
Install the Tires: Mount and balance the tires on the supermoto wheels. Ensure the tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure.
Adjust the Suspension: Adjust the suspension to compensate for the different wheel and tire sizes. This may involve adjusting the ride height, preload, and damping settings.
Test Ride: Take the bike for a test ride to ensure the wheels are properly installed and the bike handles correctly. Check for any unusual noises or vibrations.

Conclusion

Choosing the best supermoto wheels for your Honda SC450 can significantly enhance its performance and handling. By considering factors such as wheel size, material, hub quality, and compatibility, you can select a set of wheels that meets your needs and budget. Whether you are a serious racer or a recreational rider, upgrading to supermoto wheels is a worthwhile investment that will improve your riding experience. Remember guys, always prioritize safety and consult with professionals when needed to ensure your bike is set up perfectly for your riding style.