This European Standard specifies the characteristics of new wheelsets for use on European networks:

This standard is applicable to wheelsets comprising elements that conform to the following European Standards:
- EN 13262 for wheels;
- EN 13261 for axles;

This standard is not fully applicable to wheelsets undergoing maintenance.

Some characteristics are given as a function of a category 1 or of a category 2. Category 2 can be divided into sub-categories (2a and 2b) to specify certain characteristics. Category 1 is generally chosen when the operating speed exceeds 200 km/h. The wheelset then comprises wheels and axle of category 1 as specified in EN 13262 for the wheels and EN 13261 for the axles.