What should the tension be on spokes?
Most rims have suggested ranges from 100 to 120 Kilograms-force, or 980 to 1177 Newtons. This is assuming there is no pressure in the tire. Though not super precise, squeezing is still a more accurate technique for judging spoke tension than feeling the amount of effort it takes to turn a spoke nipple.
Why should we adjust spoke tension?
This can lead to de-tensioning, which is when spokes lose tension over a short amount of time. 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.
How do you adjust spoke tension?
Note that the spokes have nut-like devices at the rim called nipples. When viewed from above, nipples are turned clockwise with the spoke wrench to tighten spoke tension and counterclockwise to loosen it. To ensure that you turn the nipple the correct way, always rotate the wheel to bring the nipple to the top first.
Can I tighten spokes without a spoke wrench?
To make them able to be tightened by mere fingers, you need to release the tension on them so the nipples will spin easily. That’s as simply as pulling the wheel as far to the right as possible, which is very easy by grabbing the wheel and chainstay and squeezing them together.
How loose is too loose spokes?
The general rule is that you want to set the spoke tension as high as the weakest part of the wheel which is the rim. Wheels that are well-built will not need to have the spokes adjusted often. If you are going to be adjusting spokes, remember to loosen the opposite side spokes as you tighten one side.
What can I use if I dont have 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.
Are my spokes tight enough?
If you simply just turn the spoke (or nipple) until it feels tight or turn it as far as it will go with a spoke wrench, it may be too tight. It is important to check the tension after each time you tighten a spoke. This way if it is too tight, you can loosen it before riding.
Do I really need a spoke wrench?
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. Traditional spoke wrenches work much better for truing wheels, but they are cumbersome to carry on the trail.
Can you tighten spokes without a spoke wrench?
Can loose spokes make noise?
Loose spokes can also cause noises.