spoke tension

[jack smith]

hi all, the spoke tension on my rear wheel especially but both seem very slack and flexible so i was wondering how to adjust spoke tension without putting the wheel out of true? ive trued alot of wheels but never had an issue with tension as these are 16 spoke front 20 rear and im 100+ kilo i dont want to and wont be taking them to a shop so ill clear that up now

 

[maltloaf]

Check the tension against a good wheel. Start at the valve and turn each nipple half a turn clockwise (as if you're looking down from the nipple towards the hub) and immediately an eighth of a turn back (this takes the twist out of the spoke). Work your way all the way round the wheel and then repeat if it's still not tensioned enough.

I would then pre stress what you've done by grabbing the spokes in handfuls of four (i.e. 2 from each side) and give a good squeeze. When you're done with all that, do your normal Truing adjustments.

I got a set of open pro/105 wheels cheap from eBay that were severely under tensioned and kept going out of true almost every ride. I went through this process and they have been perfect ever since.

By the way, I'm sure you're aware but 100kg+ is a lot for a 20 spoke wheel. You're risking a failure.

Cheers,

malty

 

[jack smith]

thanks ill give it a go in abit im aware im abit over the recommended weight for the wheels

 

[lpretro1]

On the rear you will need to ensure you do not put the dishing out as well. If they are bladed you will need the tool to hold the blade in place when you turn the nipple with the spoke key