How do I know what size spoke wrench to get?

The best method to determine the correct spoke wrench size is to use a caliper and measure the nipple across the wrench flats. It is important to know that the diameter, or so called “gauge”, of the spoke does not determine the spoke wrench size.

What size are my bike spokes?

To check which size your spokes are, try to thread one into a 1.8mm nipple. If it doesn’t go, it’s a 2.0mm. NOTE: These sizes have nothing to do with spoke wrench sizes. WARNING: If you use 1.8mm spokes and 2.0mm nipples, the threads will strip out of the nipples once you tension the spoke.

Can you use a regular wrench on spokes?

Sure. If you have a very small torque wrench. Makes more sense to either buy one for spokes or learn the pitch.

What can be used as a spoke wrench?

To make your own house key spoke wrench, simply clamp the key in a vise to hold it so you can cut a nipple-sized slot in it. Don’t overtighten the key or you might damage it. Place the key so the side of the widest point is upright.

What is the standard spoke size?

The most common spoke nipple sizes are 3.23mm, 3.30mm, and 3.45mm. However, you might encounter other spoke nipple sizes ranging anywhere from 3.2mm to 9mm. Many spoke nipples are also square-shaped, including the most common sizes listed above. Some manufacturers use star-shaped or hex-shaped spoke nipples instead.

How do I know what size my bike hub is?

Hub Flange Diameter – The distance across the hub’s flange from hole to hole. Here’s how to measure these distances:

1. Figure out the distance between the lock nuts (where the hub sits in the dropouts) – 100 or 110 mm is typical for the front.
2. Take that number and divide by 2.
3. Then measure from the flange to the lock nut.

How do I choose a bike spoke?

In general terms, the more spokes a wheel has, the more the load is spread and the stronger the wheel should be. Conversely, less spokes means a lighter wheel, so a wheelbuilder must strike a balance between desired strength and light weight.

What are the strongest bicycle spokes?

Berd PolyLight Spokes: A Significant Change to Bike Wheels UHMWP is the strongest material on the planet on a per-weight basis. Its popularity stems from its extremely light weight and famous resistance to abrasion, impact, corrosion, and UV damage.

Is a spoke wrench necessary?

If a spoke snaps, the rim dents or bends, or a nipple works loose, you may need to repair it before continuing on your way. While “trail truing” the wheel by smacking it on the ground might work, It’s better to use a spoke wrench first, as it is less likely to further damage the rim and spokes.

How tight should spokes be?

The spokes should feel tight and firm. They should have just a little give when you squeeze them fairly hard. Squeeze a few spokes on other bikes to get an idea of how they should feel. It is rare for spokes to be too tight, but it is very common for them to be too loose.

Can you over tension spokes?

When truing or dishing a wheel, the mechanic is making adjustments that affect spoke tension. This can lead to broken spokes, rim fatigue and a wheel that will go out of true more often. At the other extreme, too high of tension can lead to wheel failures like cracked rims, broken spokes or even damaged hubs.

Can I ride my mountain bike with a broken spoke?

You can technically ride with a broken/missing spoke, but it is not ideal. The missing spoke is going to put pressure on the others, and it will cause bigger problems if you don’t replace it.

How can you tell if a spoke is loose?

If your spokes are so loose they rattle, they’re providing virtually no strength to the wheel structure. It’s no better than if that spoke were missing or broken. It’s a big indicator that your bike wheels need truing.