How do I choose spoke tension?

On front wheels the tension should be equal on both sides. On rear wheels the tension will be higher on the right side, or drive side of the wheel. Therefore proper spoke tension should be measured on both sides, but set to the right side spokes of rear wheels.

What happens if spoke tension is too low?

If a wheel’s tension is too low, it can cause the spokes to relax too much during a ride, creating a snapping effect and causing excess stress to both the spokes and the rim. This can lead to broken spokes, rim fatigue and a wheel that will go out of true more often.

Do you need a spoke tension meter?

You don’t need a tension meter. I’ve never had one. Jobst Brandt recommended tightening a wheel just short of causing distortion. I don’t think that that’s necessary, but a little bit less than that again stops the spokes from loosening.

Should drive side spokes be tighter?

Always bring the drive side spokes up first. I make it a rule never to tighten more than 3 full turns at a time (for each wheel revolution). It’s important to note that the total quality of a wheel build isn’t due to lateral wheel trueness but rather the overall quality of the build in general.

How do you know if your spokes are tight enough?

Once the rim is free from blips and serious flat spots, check the tension of the spokes. Put your thumb around one spoke and your fingers around the spoke next to it and squeeze. The spokes should feel tight and firm. They should have just a little give when you squeeze them fairly hard.

Which way do you tighten bike spokes?

The key to truing is adjusting the spoke(s) on the correct side of the wheel. 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.

How do you know if your spokes are too tight?

Spokes that have too much tension can result in deforming and/or cracks near the nipple holes of the rim, as seen in the image below. Notice crack at red arrow. Too much tension can also lead to failure of the hub flange.

Is it OK to ride a bike with a broken spoke?

Generally, it is not dangerous to ride with a broken or missing spoke. But if three or four spokes have broken, it’s best to stop cycling. This could lead to more spokes breaking, the wheel bucking and more expensive repairs. And if your wheels are lights, they may fall off if many spokes break.