Magnesium, precision, and just the right grams: the wheel that makes a difference on track
The SIW16508215MA wheel from Slot.it is made of magnesium, a material that slot preparers know well: lighter than aluminium, with excellent structural rigidity and a rotational response that is noticeable from the first corner. With measurements of 16.5 x 8.2 x 1.5 mm and an M2 fitting, it fits into the range of competition wheels that Slot.it develops for its own chassis and for custom builds on Sport track.
Function and performance
Magnesium reduces unsprung mass — that is, the weight that rotates with the tyre — and this has direct consequences on acceleration, braking, and cornering behaviour. Less inertia in the wheel means the motor works more efficiently, the car responds more quickly to power changes, and the tyres regain contact with the track more rapidly after a disturbance.
The width of 8.2 mm places it within the usual range for rear axles of competition cars in 1/32 scale, while the 1.5 mm depth profile allows for standard Slot.it tyres to fit with a clean adjustment and without play that would compromise concentricity.
Compatibility and assembly
The M2 fitting is the screw system that Slot.it employs across its entire range of competition wheels. For assembly, it is recommended to use the brand's original screws and apply appropriate tension: over-tightening can damage the threading on the axle, while leaving it loose introduces vibration and loss of concentricity.
If you are going to mount new tyres on this wheel, ensure to true the assembly once mounted on the car — passing the axle through a lathe or using the track as a truer — to guarantee that the rolling diameter is perfectly uniform.
Ideal for…
- Preparers looking to reduce rotational weight on the rear axle.
- Club competition with regulations allowing magnesium wheels.
- Mounts on Slot.it chassis on Sport track (Scaleauto, Slot.it).
- Technical tuning enthusiasts wanting to squeeze every tenth on the stopwatch.
Aspects to consider
Magnesium is a more delicate material against sudden impacts than aluminium or high-impact plastic. A fall from the table or a severe crash can generate micro-cracks not visible to the naked eye. In case of any doubt about the integrity of the wheel after an accident, the most prudent course of action is to replace it: the cost of a wheel is always less than losing a race — or an axle — due to an unexpected structural failure.
Frequently asked questions
What real advantage does magnesium offer over plastic or aluminium in a slot wheel?
Magnesium is lighter than aluminium and stiffer than plastic, which reduces rotational mass and improves the car's response to acceleration and braking. In competition, that difference in grams can translate into several tenths per lap.
Which Slot.it tyres is this wheel compatible with?
Its profile of 8.2 mm in width and 1.5 mm in depth is compatible with the standard rear tyres from the Slot.it competition range for 1/32. Check the brand's compatibility chart to confirm the exact model according to your application.
Is it necessary to true the tyres after mounting them on this wheel?
Yes, it is always recommended to true the wheel-tyre assembly once installed on the car. This ensures perfect concentricity and eliminates any vibration that may affect track performance.
Is this wheel valid for universal track (Scalextric, Ninco)?
The wheel itself does not depend on the type of track, but on the chassis it is mounted on. However, being a component of Slot.it's competition range, it is primarily designed for mounts on Sport track (Scaleauto, Slot.it).
How many wheels does the item include?
The available information does not specify whether it is sold individually or in a pack. We recommend confirming the quantity on the order sheet or contacting us before making your purchase.
The Slot.it SIW16508215MA magnesium wheel (16.5x8.2x1.5 mm, M2 fitting) is a high-performance slot car component designed for serious club racers and competitive builders. Magnesium construction delivers reduced rotational mass, faster response, and precise concentricity for 1/32 scale slot cars on Sport-type track systems. A go-to upgrade for anyone looking to shave lap times through smarter weight reduction at the rear axle.