The art of wire wheel construction hasn’t changed much in 90 years — and that’s exactly the point. Borrani explains why.
In an industry obsessed with the new, Borrani occupies a unique position. Their wire wheels — hand-built using techniques refined over nine decades — are not a nostalgic throwback. They are the correct choice for a specific type of motorcycle, and no modern alternative does the job better.
The Case for Wire Wheels
Wire wheels offer a combination of properties that cast or forged alloy wheels cannot replicate. The spoke structure provides compliance — the ability to flex slightly under load — which is particularly valuable on classic motorcycles with limited suspension travel. This compliance absorbs road imperfections that would otherwise be transmitted directly to the frame and rider.
Wire wheels are also repairable in a way that alloy wheels are not. A damaged spoke can be replaced individually. A cracked alloy wheel is typically scrap. For owners of rare or valuable classic motorcycles, this repairability is a significant practical advantage.
Borrani’s Construction
Borrani rims are produced from aluminium alloy, formed and welded to precise tolerances. The spoke holes are drilled and deburred by hand, and each rim is inspected before assembly. Spokes are available in stainless steel or chrome-plated steel, with nipples in brass or aluminium depending on the application.
The lacing pattern — the arrangement of spokes between hub and rim — is critical to wheel strength and stiffness. Borrani’s engineers specify the correct pattern for each application, balancing lateral stiffness against the compliance that makes wire wheels desirable. The result is a wheel that looks period-correct but performs to modern standards.
Fitting and Maintenance
Wire wheels require tube-type tyres, which limits tyre choice compared to tubeless alloy wheels. Spoke tension must be checked periodically — loose spokes can cause rim distortion and, in extreme cases, wheel failure. TAW Vehicle Concepts can supply Borrani wheels built to your specification, including hub drilling to suit your motorcycle’s brake and axle configuration.
