87149200
VEHICLES OTHER THAN RAILWAY OR TRAMWAY ROLLING STOCK, AND PARTS AND ACCESSORIES THEREOF›Parts and accessories of vehicles of headings 8711 to 8713
Wheel rims and spokes
Classification of rims and spokes CN 871492
CN code 871492 covers wheel rims and spokes intended for bicycles and other cycles under heading 8712. Bicycle rims form the outer part of the wheel on which the tyre is mounted and are connected to the hub by spokes. This code classifies aluminium, steel, and carbon rims, steel and aluminium spokes, and spoke nipples for road, mountain, city, BMX, and electric bicycles. Rims vary by diameter (26, 27.5, 29 inches), width, profile, and spoke hole count. Import follows standard customs procedures, and duty rates should be verified in TARIC or ISZTAR.
Quality and import requirements
Rims and spokes imported into the EU must meet quality standards ensuring safe use. EN ISO 4210 specifies strength requirements for bicycle wheels including rims and spokes. Rims must resist lateral and radial loads and impacts. Chinese rim and spoke imports may be subject to extended anti-dumping duties on bicycle parts. Carbon rims require particular quality control due to the possibility of hidden material defects that could lead to catastrophic failure under load.
Bicycle rim market
The bicycle rim market grows alongside European bicycle market development. The carbon rim segment is growing dynamically, driven by demand from road and mountain cyclists seeking weight reduction. Asian rim imports – from Taiwan and China – dominate the market. European manufacturers – DT Swiss, Mavic, Fulcrum – compete in the premium segment. The trend towards wider rims for tubeless tyres and special aerodynamic rim profiles influences product development. E-bike rims require reinforced construction due to greater drivetrain torque and vehicle mass loads.
Frequently asked questions
Are bicycle rims from China subject to anti-dumping duties?
Bicycle rim imports from China may be subject to extended anti-dumping duties on bicycle parts. Current rates and scope should be verified in the TARIC system. These duties were introduced to prevent circumvention of duties on complete Chinese bicycles. Importers should check whether the specific parts subcategory is covered by these duties.
What standards must carbon rims meet?
Carbon rims must meet the same EN ISO 4210 standards as aluminium and steel rims. Additionally, particular composite material quality control is required – ultrasonic or X-ray testing may be used to detect hidden defects. Manufacturers should document production and quality control processes. Carbon rims not meeting standards pose a risk due to sudden fracture potential.
Are spokes classified under the same code as rims?
Yes, bicycle spokes are classified under the same CN code 871492 as bicycle rims. The code covers both rims and spokes and nipples for bicycles. Steel and aluminium spokes, including flat (aero) and round spokes, fall within this code. Spoke imports follow the same customs procedures as rims.
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