Bicycle Mechanics - Just got new wheels, do I need to get the spokes checked?

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Eggplant Jeff
05-05-06, 08:21 PM
I just got a new wheelset, these:
http://harriscyclery.net/itemdetails.cfm?id=1675
They look pretty good, but I was curious, do I need to take them to an LBS and get the spoke tension checked or anything? Some people say a new wheelset isn't always tensioned properly. The spokes seem pretty even to me but I've never built a wheel or even trued one, so I don't know for sure what to look for.
Retro Grouch
05-05-06, 08:26 PM
Depends on the LBS. I suspect there is a better than average chance that all they would do would be to put the wheels on a trueing stand and confirm the side-to-side and radial wobble. If that's all that they do, I think that would be a waste.
Little Darwin
05-05-06, 08:41 PM
I wouldn't be too surprised if Harris Cyclery already checked them out before shipping. But, I could be wrong, they could just pull them from stock and ship them.
I wouldn't hesitate to contact them and ask... If they say they are good, I would trust them.
I don't want to bash my own mechanic, but I'd suggest taking them over and letting Chris at A-1 take a look at them. If they're good, he'll tell you so with a smile. Go by in the evening and tell him I sent ya!
urbanknight
05-05-06, 09:31 PM
Grab each set of parallel spokes (per side) and pull them towards each other. Then put it on your bike and see if they are still true (according to the brakes). If it wobbles, the spokes weren't tensioned. If not, you're probably fine.
phantomcow2
05-06-06, 07:26 PM
There are many ways to stress relieve, pick one that you like and do it. If its still true, great. If not, take it your LBS. Chances are, you are fine
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