Forhjulets

Forhjulets is the genitive form of the Scandinavian word for the front wheel, forhjul. In practical use, the term denotes the front wheel component of a vehicle and may refer to the wheel itself, the hub and axle, as well as the surrounding suspension and braking hardware that connect the wheel to the chassis.

In bicycles, the forhjulets is mounted in a front fork. The fork acts as a steering member; the wheel's rotation is controlled through the handlebars. Front brakes (rim or disc) provide stopping power. The size and type of the front wheel affect handling, ride quality, and weight distribution.

In motor vehicles, the forhjulets assembly includes the wheel hub, brake system, and part of the suspension and steering linkages. In front-wheel-drive cars, it also receives propulsion; the wheel's orientation is controlled by the steering rack and knuckle. Proper alignment, including toe, camber, and caster, is essential for steering response, tire wear, and stability. Brakes on the front wheels typically bear a majority of stopping load.

Forhjulets design has evolved with advances in materials and suspension: from rigid forks and drum brakes to hydraulic disc brakes, and from simple rigid axles to complex MacPherson or double wishbone suspensions in cars, and through lighter alloy or carbon-fiber rims in racing. In bicycles, suspension forks, tubeless tires, and wider rims reflect ongoing development. The term remains primarily a linguistic reference point in Scandinavian languages, but the concept is central to vehicle engineering worldwide.