Bicycle Mechanics - Replacing spokes

Bikeforums.net is a forum about nothing but bikes. Our community can help you find information about hard-to-find and localized information like bicycle tours, specialties like where in your area to have your recumbent bike serviced, or what are the best bicycle tires and seats for the activities you use your bike for.



PDA

View Full Version : Replacing spokes

hubbardude
10-27-07, 09:04 PM
I am fixing up a Miyata 110 road bike. The front wheel has several spokes (10-15) that are rusted. Everything else about the wheel is fine. I'm wondering if it's possible to replace these spokes, or if it's better to go ahead and try to find a new rim. So, if I replace the spokes does it compromise the rim at all? Any safety issues? I'd really like to just replace the spokes if possible to save myself some $. Thanks.

waterrockets
10-27-07, 09:11 PM
I'd probably just rub down the spokes with WD-40 and a rag and ride them until they start breaking (which may be a very long time).

Replacing spokes is pretty easy, and does not harm the wheel if the new spoke is brought up to the proper tension. These wheels sound like they may have a broad tension problem anyway, so re-tensioning may be in order, which is a wheel-building skill.

To replace spokes on the drive-side rear, you'll need to remove the freewheel or cassette (the sprockets), which will require special tools. The spoke nipples will also require a spoke wrench. For everything, you're looking at maybe $25 in tools.
DannoXYZ
10-28-07, 05:08 PM
If the wheel is fairly true, no need to replace the rim. Just loosen up all the spokes by an even amount, like 5-6 turns each. Then replace the rusted spokes with new stainless ones. Then retension all the spokes by 5-6 turns. True and that's it. :)

operator
10-28-07, 05:52 PM
I am fixing up a Miyata 110 road bike. The front wheel has several spokes (10-15) that are rusted. Everything else about the wheel is fine. I'm wondering if it's possible to replace these spokes, or if it's better to go ahead and try to find a new rim. So, if I replace the spokes does it compromise the rim at all? Any safety issues? I'd really like to just replace the spokes if possible to save myself some $. Thanks.

Don't bother. You can get a new front alloy wheel for $40. El cheapo hub, semi aero rim, straight guage spokes. If you are really keen on saving money however - yes you can just replace the spokes. It won't compromise the rim nor should there be any safety issues.

As long as the wheel isn't damaged to begin with.