Will a strong wheelset help prvent a frame from breaking?
 

I noticed now that I run these monstrous Ryno Lites on my Sugar the bike itself seems to have a lot less lateral flex. Would this translate into less stress on the frame and subsequently help the frame to last longer?

Not likely. Anything will break at it's weakest point. If you notice less flex, it's because the wheels flex less than the previous set.

Just the Opposite
 

It might be just the opposite - I used to jump BMX bikes a long time ago and I used Tuff wheels (5 spoke plastic "mags") which were practically indestructable. But my frame kept breaking. Then I switched to normal aluminum rims with spokes. The extra flex seemed to absorb the impact better on landing and my frame never broke again. So a stronger wheelset might translate more force into the frame (consider rigid forks verses suspension forks).

well, it depends on your definition of strong.

if you mean strong as in unyielding. then yeah, all that stress will pass through the wheels to the frame and then you.

now if by strong you mean resilient, then it'll be the opposite. the wheels will absorb alot of the energy (but hopefully not break), thus buffering it all out.

werd :cool:

Keep in mind that the breakage always occurs at the weakest spot. I'd rather have to replace a $70 rim every season than my frame. I'm not saying that needs to be an immediate concern of yours... but make sure the gear you run and the way you ride are suited for your frame.

Not as much as losing 10-20 lbs :rolleyes:

the heavier (or stronger) the wheel set, the less flex you will feel in them , I doubt that would relate to a frame lasting any longer. To really stiffen up the rear try running a bolt on rear axle, they are alot stiffer than the typical QR type.

I swear on my life that the last time my frame broke I was climbing a small hill and snappedf the seat tube in 2 after riding over a very small log. How is it that i still have my original Marzochi Bomber and I've been through 3 frames. I haven't broken a wheel in years.

Furthermore,I ride my aluminum Stumpjumper just as hard or harder w/o breakage. And I ride my 1x1 harder yet because it is far and away the toughest bike I own.

Thanks buddy. I think I'll go eat a dozen donuts to take away the pain of being called a fatass. Sorry sugar. ;)