Originally Posted by
johnbort2
Thanks for the replies. I wasn't worried at all till I started reading these threads, now I am not so sure...lol At this point, I can't have 36 spoke wheels built and still be able to get all the touring stuff by May. I am going with a buddy and we will be on the GAP/C&O, so I won't be on any remote roads and trails.
maybe have the shop you buy the bike from tension and true the wheels when you buy the bike? Or if you have it, take the wheels into a shop and have them properly tension the wheels?
The biggest downside to machine built wheels(except for very expensive ones) is that spoke tension is not consistent. Ive read about a machine at some wheel factory in Europe which can tension wheels as well as anyone, but most wheels for this type of bike and less dont have the same level of quality and precision.
You with a bob is effectively like just you on the bike riding the path. I am far from an expert which is why I stick to higher spokes if at all possible, so im better safe than sorry. But if time doesnt make a swap possible, then bring this if a spoke actually breaks and have fun.
Amazon.com : FiberFix Emergency Spoke Replacement Kit : Bike Spokes And Accessories : Sports & Outdoors