7 Best Derby Car Wheels of 2026

These Pinewood Pro PRO Speed Wheels are engineered for racers who demand every possible edge on race day. With precision-lathed treads, squared hubs, and a patent-pending graphite coating, they deliver ultra-low friction and track-proven speed right out of the box. The attention to detail—like truing the inner tread and balancing all four wheels from the same mold—eliminates wobble and inconsistency, solving the common pain points of stock wheels that drag or veer off course.

In real-world testing, these wheels consistently outperformed untreated BSA kits, especially on longer tracks where smooth rolling resistance makes the biggest difference. The graphite-perma-coated hubs and treads maintain lubrication across multiple runs, reducing the need for reapplication. They fit standard BSA axles and bodies without modification, but their true advantage shines when paired with polished axles—delivering noticeably faster starts and sustained speed through the finish line. However, they may be overkill for casual builders not focused on competitive edge.

Compared to budget options like the standard BSA Speed Wheels, the PRO version offers a clear performance upgrade with its advanced lathing and friction-reducing design. While not as flashy as glow-in-the-dark or pink styles, these wheels are built for one thing: winning. They sit just below the Ultra-Lite model in weight reduction but match it in track readiness. For racers seeking maximum speed with rule-compliant modifications, these are a top-tier choice that balances innovation and reliability.

If you’re outfitting an entire den or running a derby event, the Maximum Velocity Bulk Pack delivers unmatched value without sacrificing quality. These non-official wheels and axles are crafted with care—burr-free, crimp-free, and ready to install—eliminating hours of prep work that plague standard kits. The axles spin true right out of the package, and the wheels are balanced enough for solid performance, making them ideal for group builds where consistency matters.

During testing across multiple car types—including 3D-printed bodies and potato derbies—these wheels proved surprisingly versatile. The set includes 48 wheels and 60 axles, enough for a dozen cars with extras for spares or crashes. While they don’t match the ultra-polished precision of lathed BSA-compatible wheels, they perform well on short to mid-length tracks and hold up across repeated races. They’re not legal in all official BSA events due to non-standard design, so always check local rules before racing.

When stacked against the Official Scout Speed Wheels, these lack mold-matching and CNC lathing, but they win in practicality and scalability. They’re not meant to be speed demons, but reliable workhorses for education, STEM programs, or fun-focused events. For pack leaders, teachers, or DIY enthusiasts needing durable, ready-to-run components in volume, this bulk pack offers unbeatable convenience and consistent build quality across a large fleet of cars.

The Maximum Velocity Official Scout Speed Wheels stand out for their CNC-lathed precision and mold-matched consistency, making them a favorite among detail-oriented builders. Each wheel is trued to the bore center, ensuring perfect alignment, while the radius-cut inner tread reduces contact friction for smoother tracking. The inclusion of high-accuracy speed axles—free of crimps and burrs—means less prep and more time tuning weight and aerodynamics.

On the track, these wheels deliver noticeably straighter runs and reduced drag, especially when paired with graphite lubrication. The matched mold numbers guarantee uniform diameter and bore size, eliminating the “one slow wheel” problem that plagues unsorted sets. In real use, this translates to predictable performance and fewer surprises during heats. They’re ideal for intermediate builders who want competition-ready parts without custom modifications.

Compared to the Pinewood Pro PRO Speed Wheels, they offer similar precision but with a more accessible price point. While they lack the graphite-perma-coat, they’re easier to polish and customize further. These wheels strike a smart balance between professional-grade accuracy and user-friendly design, making them perfect for racers who value repeatable results and clean builds. For those chasing precision without over-engineering, this set delivers where it counts.

Don’t let the low price fool you—these Pinewood Pro Lightly Lathed BSA Speed Wheels punch well above their weight in performance. Starting with official BSA-compliant wheels, they’re lathed in five key areas to remove imperfections and reduce weight by 0.2 grams per wheel, translating to faster acceleration and less inertia. The coned and squared hubs minimize body contact, slashing friction and helping your car launch cleanly off the starting line.

In real-world runs, these wheels showed clear improvement over raw BSA kits, especially on tracks with tight clearances where hub drag is common. The lathing is subtle but effective—preserving all official markings while enhancing roll efficiency. They work seamlessly with standard axles and are ideal for first-time tuners who want an upgrade without advanced tools. That said, they don’t match the ultra-smooth finish of the PRO or Ultra-Lite models, so serious racers may want to polish further.

When compared to the Official Pinewood Derby Wheels, these offer far better performance while staying rule-legal. They’re not as flashy or feature-rich as high-end models, but they deliver real speed gains at a wallet-friendly price. For budget-conscious builders or Cub Scouts needing a reliable, race-ready edge, these wheels provide the smartest entry point into performance tuning—affordable, effective, and track-tested.

Sometimes, winning isn’t just about speed—it’s about style and standout presence. These pink Official Pinewood Derby Wheels bring flair to the track with their vibrant color and blacklight glow, making them a hit at themed races and pack events. They’re fully compliant with BSA rules and include four wheels and four axles as direct replacements for standard kits. While they don’t offer performance tuning, their visual impact is undeniable—perfect for racers who want to turn heads before the race even starts.

In performance terms, they behave like stock wheels—modest roll, some friction, and typical hub drag—so don’t expect podium finishes based on speed alone. However, their durability and fit are solid, and they install easily on any BSA-compliant car. They’re best used in non-competitive builds or fun races where creativity is scored alongside speed. Under black lights, they emit a cool glow, adding a theatrical element that delights kids and judges alike.

Compared to the Pinewood Pro Ultra-Lite or PRO models, these offer zero performance edge—but that’s not their purpose. They’re the antithesis of speed-focused wheels, designed for self-expression and fun. For parents helping kids build a show-stopping car for a themed derby, these wheels deliver maximum personality in a rule-friendly package. When style matters as much as seconds, they’re unbeatable.

The Pinewood Pro Deep Hub Wheels are built for racers who need consistent performance across multiple heats—thanks to their graphite-storing deep hubs. Just insert the axle, pour in graphite, seal with a sticker, and you’ve got a self-lubricating wheel system that stays fast from heat one to the finals. Weighing in at just 2 grams each, they’re among the lightest options available, giving your car a quicker launch and lower rotational inertia.

In extended race testing, these wheels maintained smoother roll than standard models, even after five or more runs without re-lubing. The spoked design isn’t just for looks—it channels graphite to the hub contact point, reducing friction over time. They fit all major axle types (BSA, Awana, Pine-Car), making them versatile for different kits and rulesets. However, the deep hub design adds slight width, so check for body clearance to avoid rubbing.

Versus the Official Scout Speed Wheels, these trade a bit of precision lathing for long-term lubrication advantage. They’re not CNC-trued or mold-matched, so they’re not ideal for elite racing, but they excel in multi-round events where maintenance time is limited. For coaches, educators, or racers who need reliable, low-maintenance wheels that stay competitive across back-to-back runs, these deliver smart engineering where it matters most.

Meet the gold standard of derby wheels—the Pinewood Pro Ultra-Lite Graphite Coated Wheels are a masterclass in speed engineering. With 0.5 grams shaved off each wheel through precision lathing and a proprietary multi-step graphite coating, they offer elite-level performance while staying fully rule-compliant. The squared hubs eliminate wobble, and the perma-coated treads ensure friction stays low from start to finish, making these the most complete out-of-the-box solution for serious racers.

On the track, these wheels deliver blistering starts and consistent roll, outpacing even the PRO Speed Wheels in side-by-side tests. The graphite treatment isn’t surface-deep—it’s integrated for lasting lubrication, reducing the need for frequent reapplication. They’re balanced, mold-matched, and ready to race with zero prep, which is a huge time-saver for builders focused on aerodynamics and weight distribution. The only limitation? Their premium performance comes with a premium expectation—they demand clean axles and precise alignment to shine.

Compared to the PRO Speed Wheels, they offer greater weight reduction and more advanced coating, making them the best overall choice for racers who want maximum advantage without custom work. They beat the Budget BSA Lathed Wheels in every performance metric, and while they cost more, the performance-per-dollar is unmatched. For builders aiming to dominate on speed, consistency, and tech, these wheels are the ultimate weapon—light, slick, and battle-tested.