Hubless wheel
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A hubless wheel (also known as a rim-rider or centerless wheel) is a type of wheel with no center hub. The hubless wheel was invented by Franco Sbarro, who has built a variety of working hubless wheel vehicles including at least two motorcycles. Sbarro later sold the patent, which is now held by Globeholding of Geneva.
Although hubless wheels are striking in appearance, their numerous practical disadvantages have precluded their widespread use as an alternative to conventional wheels. They are difficult and expensive to manufacture, requiring a great deal of precision machining, and the design leaves the bearings and other mechanical parts largely exposed to the elements. The drive system is especially problematic since a conventional axle and CV joint cannot be used; options include using chain or belt drive. Another solution, developed by Sbarro, is to house the entire propulsion system inside the wheel itself.
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