Originally Posted by GetOutOfNJ
I'm building my first wheel set (the back is done, the front is in the works) and I'm wondering what tension the spokes should be. When I true a wheel, I usually just flick them with my finger and listen to it, but I feel like I might as well learn to do something more pro. I have access to a spoke tension-o-meter, but what tension should it read? I'm using mavic ma3 rims and double-butted spokes in front, straight in back. I weigh 135 lbs.
Also, I was discussing this issue with my friend at the Bike Library-- Should fixed gear back wheels use heavier spokes than normal, or only straight spokes, for the extra strain? Should the spokes be more tense? Does a tense wheel mean a stronger wheel?
thanks.
I've been following advice on tension from here all year. And I am happy with the results.
http://www.bikexprt.com/bicycle/tension.htm
Essentially the idea is that the tension of a spoke of certain length matches a musical pitch when optimally tensioned, so if you have a good ear and a tuning fork you can go a long way on but a little.
cheers
marty