Hi,

I know this topic comes up regularly, but I can't find something that quite answers my question: how far down is it acceptable to round down spoke length based on a value produced from a spoke length calculator (e.g. Damon Rinard's Excel spreadsheet).

For example, I've got a Shimano Nexus Inter-8 (SG-8R25) internally geared hub and a Mavic MA3 rim (36 holes for both). Although the SG-8R25 is not listed in the database of hubs, Sheldon Brown confirmed for me that the slightly older SG-8R20 has the same relevant dimensions.

Accoding the the spreadsheet I should use 283.8 and 283.2 mm spokes for the left and ride sides, respectively, since I'd like to use a 3-cross pattern for the 36 spokes.

However, the store from where I purchased the spokes only had even sizes. I remembered the rule to round down and went with 282 mm spokes, and am now wondering if I should have shopped around for 283 mm spokes. The rim has not yet come in, and I've got a tour planned strating in one week using this wheel, so this has left me with time to worry about such things.

So, my ultimate question: if Spokecalc recommends 283.8 mm and I round down to 282 mm, have I gone too far?

Thanks for your time,

D