Need to replace spokes?
05-28-11, 01:39 PM
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Need to replace spokes?
I need to figure out what size spokes i need and nipples? They are 27" rims, Its a 1980s univaga viva touring, How do i figure out what size i need?
05-28-11, 02:04 PM
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There are three ways:
1) figure out EXACTLY what hubs and rims you have, track down their specifics. Feed that data into the spoke calculator of your choice together with what lace pattern you want and you're all set. Do note that rear wheels regularly require two different lengths.
2) Remove one spoke from the front and one from each side of the rear wheel. Bring to shop. Buy replacements.
3) With considerable care, measure your rims and hubs. Then follow 1)
05-28-11, 05:05 PM
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Though you don't give much info, certain details can be inferred from the type and vintage of your bike.
Odds are that you have 14g spokes like 95% (or more) of the bikes of the era. Odds are they're plain gauge, but you can confirm by looking for a change in thickness at either or both ends. If the ends are thicker you have butted spokes.
They are probably galvanized (the dull gray color of a cyclone fence), but Univega was a pioneer in spec.ing stainless steel, so they might be. Stainless spokes are shiny with a slightly yellowish color.
The last issue is length, which you can estimate decently by laying a ruler along any spoke and measuring from the elbow to rim and adding 5mm, (for the wall of the rim and thickness of the nipples head).
Odds are that you have 14g spokes like 95% (or more) of the bikes of the era. Odds are they're plain gauge, but you can confirm by looking for a change in thickness at either or both ends. If the ends are thicker you have butted spokes.
They are probably galvanized (the dull gray color of a cyclone fence), but Univega was a pioneer in spec.ing stainless steel, so they might be. Stainless spokes are shiny with a slightly yellowish color.
The last issue is length, which you can estimate decently by laying a ruler along any spoke and measuring from the elbow to rim and adding 5mm, (for the wall of the rim and thickness of the nipples head).
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Just because I'm tired of arguing, doesn't mean you're right.
“One accurate measurement is worth a thousand expert opinions” - Adm Grace Murray Hopper - USN
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05-28-11, 08:36 PM
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5000+ wheels built since 1984...
Disclaimer:
1. I do not claim to be an expert in bicycle mechanics despite my experience.
2. I like anyone will comment in other areas.
3. I do not own the preexisting concepts of DISH and ERD.
4. I will provide information as I always have to others that I believe will help them protect themselves from unscrupulous mechanics.
5. My all time favorite book is:
Kahane, Howard. Logic and Contemporary Rhetoric: The Use of Reason in Everyday Life
05-28-11, 08:58 PM
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Take your wheel to a shop, get them to try a spoke you think is the right size and purchase.
05-29-11, 05:40 AM
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Not the question you asked but a 25 year old rim with spokes that need replacing? The rim might still be OK, but I doubt it. I admittedly haven't seen your wheel but I'm thinking that any money that you spend on it should just be added to the cost of the rebuild or replacement that you'll eventually find yourself doing.
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