Bicycle Mechanics - I need Shimano R-535 spokes

I use the Shimano R-535 wheel system, and I just broke a spoke on my rear wheel. Since these are reduced-spoke wheels, they go out of true even if they are only missing one spoke. They require special Shimano bladed spokes for the 535 wheel system.

Does anyone have a source for these?

Thanks.


--Matt

I think you're out of luck from any place other than Shimano directly. Have your LBS order them for you.

I think you're out of luck from any place other than Shimano directly. Have your LBS order them for you.

Yes, you're right. I'm screwed. It turns out my wheels are actually R540's not R535's. I have a brand new pair of R535's in my closet (brand new in plastic, never used) and the spokes from the 535's don't fit the R540's.

I'm ordering some R540 spokes from my LBS, who made it clear they had better things to do, so I don't expect them to arrive quickly.

Furthermore, everyone I speak to says these wheels are not for me. I'm 220 lbs, and these wheels are supposedly not for anyone over 175.

Anyone wanna buy a brand new pair of Shimano R535 wheels?

Ok I just had a recent run in with this wheel!!!

Heads up...

There are 2 types of nipples!!! and 2 different sizes of spokes. As an ex Shimano station. According to them. After 2 years the spokes become brittle. You should buy a full set. YES they still have them available. As for the special tool? Just be sure to hold the spoke still when turning the nipple.

#1 RULE is you MUST detension all the spokes. Even to replace just the one. Then tension they again.

Most any shop will be able to order this for you. BUY A FULL SET. Keep the old ones for spares.

Ok I just had a recent run in with this wheel!!!

#1 RULE is you MUST detension all the spokes. Even to replace just the one. Then tension they again.

Most any shop will be able to order this for you. BUY A FULL SET. Keep the old ones for spares.



Thanks. I'm ordering a set of spokes now from my LBS. I'll post about my adventures as they unfold.

Long story short;

Everything for these wheels must be ordered from Shimano. I had to order spokes to fix the rear wheel. While waiting for those, I opened up the front wheel to clean some dirt out of the bearings. The bearings were clean and perfect, but one of the bearing cups was pitted and needed to be replaced. Had to order a "hub kit" from shimano.

I'll be selling these wheels shortly. Not because I don't like them, but because I'm too heavy for them, and it's hard to get parts.

I've already had two short skinny guys try to buy them from me.