What Is a Double Hub Wheelbarrow Wheel? Single Hub vs Offset Hub Explained

When buying a replacement wheelbarrow wheel, many customers focus only on the tyre size, such as 16", 13", or 4.80/4.00-8. However, one of the most important measurements is often overlooked: Hub Type and Hub Distance.

Buying the wrong hub size can make installation difficult — even if the tyre size itself is correct. In this guide, we explain:

• What is a double hub wheel?
• What is a single hub / offset hub?
• What does hub distance mean?
• How to measure hub distance correctly
• What happens if you buy the wrong size
• How washers/spacers can help fix fitting issues

What Is a Double Hub Wheel?

A double hub wheel means the wheel hub is positioned in the center, with equal support on both sides of the bearing area. This design provides:

• Better balance
• Improved load stability
• Stronger support for heavy-duty applications
• Smoother rolling performance

Double hub wheels are commonly used on:

• Wheelbarrows
• Garden carts
• Trolleys
• Hand trucks
• Construction equipment

What Is a Single Hub / Offset Hub?

A single hub or offset hub wheel has the bearing section positioned closer to one side instead of centered.

This type of wheel is often used when:

• The frame design requires extra clearance
• The wheel must align with one side of equipment
• Space inside the fork/frame is limited

Offset hub wheels are very common on:

• Special trolley systems
• Pressure washer carts
• Generator wheels
• Custom wheelbarrow frames

What Does Hub Distance Mean?

Hub Distance refers to the total width of the wheel hub section — usually measured from one outside edge of the bearing/hub area to the other.

This measurement is critical because the wheel must fit properly between the frame brackets or wheelbarrow legs.

Typical Problems Caused by Wrong Hub Distance

How to Measure Hub Distance Correctly

Before purchasing a replacement wheel, follow these simple steps:

1. Remove the old wheel if possible
2. Measure the full hub width using a ruler or caliper
3. Measure the axle/bearing bore size (16mm, 20mm, 25.4mm etc.)
4. Check whether the hub is centered or offset
5. Compare measurements with product specifications

Can You Fix the Wrong Hub Distance?

Sometimes — yes.

If the wheel hub is slightly too short, you can usually add:

• Flat washers
• Axle spacers
• Custom bushings

This is actually a very common solution used by repair shops and equipment manufacturers.

For example:

• A wheel with a 90mm hub can often fit a 100mm frame using washers
• A slightly narrower wheel is usually easier to adapt than an oversized hub

Our 16" Wheelbarrow Wheels

At Weijia Wholesale, our 16" wheelbarrow wheels currently come in two main hub styles:

If you accidentally buy the shorter version, in many cases you can simply install suitable washers to make it fit properly.

Recommended Products

• 16" Pneumatic Wheelbarrow Wheels
• Wheelbarrow Wheel Collection
• Heavy Duty Castor Wheels

Need Help Choosing the Correct Wheel?

If you are unsure about:

• Hub distance
• Bearing size
• Offset hub vs centered hub
• Axle compatibility

Please contact us directly before purchasing. We are happy to help you measure and confirm compatibility.