Spoke repair quandary

[chris-s]

Less than 3 miles into a ride last week a spoke on the rear wheel broke, sheared off the 'head' at the hub end. I was able to release the wheel-removal-brake-tensioner on the caliper and cycle back carefully. Having some spare spokes (bought in anticipation of such an event whilst on tour in France), I replaced it and adjusted the tension on it until the wheel was true and all seems to be fine after 30 miles or so.

HOWEVER, I'm wondering if I should take it to the LBS and get them to re-tension the whole wheel for peace of mind considering that (a) I have a triathlon this coming weekend, (b) a half dozen other owners of the same bike have all had rear-spoke breakages within six months, tho mine seems to have lasted much longer without issue (13 months, 3000 miles including a loaded camping tour to Paris in July) but I'm also a believer of 'if it ain't broke leave it alone'.



Chris

 

[actonblue]

Leave it alone. You could get a rough idea of the tension by comparing the tone of each spoke. But as long as the wheel is true after replacing the new spoke you should be fine.

 

[Herzog]

I'd get the LBS to equalize the spoke tensions. A weakened wheel will do nothing for your confidence during your triathlon.

 

[PatrickPending]

I'd leave it alone, if you got it true - tis quite easy - however its likely more will go, usually rear drive side, if its a machine built wheel with cheap spokes. If its a pricier handbuilt one well you were probably just unlucky.

 

[PoweredByVeg]

What make is the wheel?

 

[chris-s]

Not sure, factory wheels that came with the Bianchi, novatec hubs , can't remember what the rims are off hand, nothing fancy tho.