Tips for Motorcycle Rim Repair: When is Pressing Safe, and When is Replacement Necessary?

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com – Frequently hitting potholes, especially during the rainy season, not only makes the motorcycle unstable but can also lead to significant expenses. A bent or cracked rim forces motorcycle owners to choose between two options: repairing it using a pressing method or replacing it with a new one. Which option is more sensible in terms of cost and safety? This is certainly a major consideration, especially for owners of daily-use scooters. Moreover, the risk of damage increases during the rainy season. “The rainy season is often a real enemy for rims. Potholes covered by puddles are truly a trap for motorcycle riders,” he said. Therefore, many motorcycle owners opt for the repair method, which is much more affordable than buying a new unit. For spoked rims, repair is relatively safe and even recommended if the damage is within reasonable limits. Usually, it only requires re-adjustment of the spokes or replacement of the rim rings if the condition is too severe. The more flexible nature of spoked rims makes the repair process less risky to the wheel structure. If it is only a slight bend or dent, pressing is still considered safe, especially if done by a professional technician using hydraulic tools without excessive heat. However, if the process involves high temperatures, there are consequences for the material structure. In the case of cast metal rims, exposure to extreme heat can change the hardness of the metal or trigger metal fatigue. As a result, a rim that has been pressed may become more easily bent again when hitting a pothole in the future. KOMPAS.com is committed to providing clear, trustworthy, and balanced facts. Support the sustainability of clear journalism and enjoy ad-free reading through Membership. Join KOMPAS.com Plus now.