Brompton Rim Tape: Identify Single-Wall and Double-Wall Rims

Brompton rim tape should be matched to the rim currently fitted, not simply to the bicycle's age. Brompton's historical chart distinguishes single-wall and double-wall designs and gives each its own tape code. That makes the chart useful when restoring a classic folding bike, provided replacement wheels and previous repairs are accounted for before choosing a part.

Brompton rim tape codes in the historical chart

The official S1004 wheels, rims and spokes sheet (https://trade.brompton.com/Uploads/QPart/QPart-Datasheets/ds-wheel.pdf) identifies blue QRIMTAPE-SW for the single-wall rims used on bicycles produced before 2013. Yellow QRIMTAPE-DW is specified for the double-wall rims used from the start of 2013. These are source-specific part associations, rather than a rule that any blue or yellow tape from any supplier is interchangeable.

A bike built before that transition may now have a later replacement rim. Conversely, the presence of a loose tape strip does not establish the rim's identity. Have the actual construction and markings checked when uncertain. Record whether the question concerns the front or rear wheel, because service history can differ between the two.

Separate tape identification from rim condition

S1004 also explains a different replacement trigger: wear of the rim's braking surface eventually reveals a void, at which point the rim should be replaced. New tape does not resolve that condition. If you are arranging a tyre or tube service and the braking surface is questionable, include a rim inspection in the same workshop request.

For a useful enquiry, provide the visible rim identification, whether it is believed to be single or double wall, and any wheel-replacement history. Ask the dealer to confirm the matching current tape rather than treating an archived code as proof of availability. If the rim itself needs replacing, the hub-and-rim matching guide covers the separate spoke-selection decision.

The two tape codes do not supply a universal tape width, thickness or substitute specification. If a listing gives only those dimensions, ask how its intended rim application has been established. Likewise, a bicycle purchase year cannot settle a disagreement between a tape listing and an identified replacement rim. Keep the actual rim evidence attached to the order so that the part request survives a change of supplier.

FAQ

Which tape is listed for the older single-wall rim?

S1004 lists blue QRIMTAPE-SW for the single-wall rims used before 2013. Confirm the actual fitted rim before applying that historical association.

What does the sheet list for double-wall rims?

Yellow QRIMTAPE-DW, associated with double-wall rims used from the start of 2013. Colour alone is not evidence that an unrelated tape is the specified part.

Can new tape solve the wear void described in the sheet?

Brompton calls for rim replacement when that void appears in the braking surface. Replacing tape does not substitute for addressing the worn rim.

A confirmed rim design answers the tape question; a condition assessment answers whether that rim should remain in service. Use the Brompton topic to follow the appropriate decision instead of assuming that every wheel job is just a consumable swap.

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Original title: Brompton bicycle half folded and loaded

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