A quick word about the images included in this review. The wheels sets with the covers (hiding the spokes and the rim) are the original kit wheels. All other items in the images are included in the Scale Spokes product.

Scale Spokes offers a number of high-quality after-market items for 1/48^th and 1/32^nd wheels for various aircraft. To see a full list, description of each item, and images please visit the Scale Spokes website.

This review features the 32nd scale set for the Nieuport 28. This set is hand-made, and as I’m sure you’ll agree after having viewed the accompanying images, is magnificent! Just like the actual wheels on the Ni-28, these Scale Spokes items have 3 set of spokes. A set connects the inner and outer edges of the hub and another set connects the center of the hub to the rim.

Scale Spokes uses resin or aluminum hubs, aluminum rims, cooper wire spokes and rubber tires. While the rubber tires have been removed from the rims, as seen in some of the images, they are packaged “on the rims”. It is a simple task to remove the rubber tires, if so desired, and to attach the resin tires that Scale Spokes provides.

Scale Spokes provides an important caution to the modeler who wishes to remove the rubber tires or to remount the rubber tires. Please note that the rims are hand-made, and are somewhat fragile. It is a simple and safe procedure to remove the tires, exercising a modicum of caution and a delicate touch. On my sample I was able to remount the rubber tires with that same level of caution. However, if you find the fit of the rubber tires too tight to allow successful remounting, then place the rubber tires in some hot water (NOT BOILING!) and let them warm up. As the rubber heats up it will expand. Put the rim on a flat surface and then place the rim over and around the rim. As it cools it will shrink down and grip the rim quite nicely.

This product is a bit on the pricey side at $27. In fact that is more than I paid for the kit, but the level of quality of the product, the ease of use, the stunning visual appeal of the product more than balances the price. I highly recommend this product! Thanks to UMM for providing this item to IPMS for review.

Note with the Tip:

These wheels are fragile and changing the tires can cause damage to the hub and spokes if you are not careful. If you need to change the tires, please visit the TIPS section for advice on this procedure.