Bicycle Mechanics - spoke recommendation for newbie builder

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aloysius

01-06-08, 03:17 PM

Having spend a few weeks unsuccessfully searching for a suitable, reasonably priced 7 speed shimano wheel, I've decided to build one myself. I'll be lacing an 32 IRD cadence rim to an old shimano 600 rear hub, probably in a three-cross pattern. My question is this: what sort of spokes would you recommend? Thanks.

HillRider

01-06-08, 04:12 PM

For the new builder, plain 14 ga spokes are easier to use since they don't tend to "wind up" as much as butted spokes so they are more straight forward to tension and true. Butted spokes have several theoretical and practical advantages but get your first experience with straight gage spokes.

shakeNbake

01-06-08, 04:59 PM

Any suggestions on where to buy spokes online?

HillRider

01-06-08, 05:23 PM

Nashbar

waterrockets

01-06-08, 06:16 PM

Yeah, Nashbar's current prices on Wheelsmith spokes are pretty good. Great spokes too.

aloysius

01-06-08, 06:30 PM

Thanks, sounds like a plan.