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Old 10-08-11 | 09:05 PM
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Nipple size

I've searched around, but I can't seem to find how to determine if you need 12mm or 14mm nipples for a rim. Is this something you need to measure when you receive the rim (like ERD), or am I not finding the manufacturer specifications?
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Old 10-08-11 | 09:13 PM
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I doubt it's something in the manufacturer's specification, unless it's something really odd. Typically, a 12mm nipple would work on a box-section rim or something with an eyelet. A 14mm nipple would be for an "aero" rim, where the thickness from the nipple seat to the nipple's flats need to be greater to avoid scratching the rim.

This is supposition on my part. Most of the wheels I build now use box-section rims.

What rim are you going to be using?
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Old 10-08-11 | 09:20 PM
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Thanks Jeff. This build will be based on Sun CR18s, so it sounds like a 12 mm should work.
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Old 10-08-11 | 09:53 PM
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Maybe I'm just immature, but I think the title of this thread is HILARIOUS.
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Old 10-08-11 | 10:16 PM
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Originally Posted by AlphaDogg
Maybe I'm just immature, but I think the title of this thread is HILARIOUS.
Yes you are and yes it is.
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Old 10-09-11 | 01:43 AM
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It's a length .. DT has some longer length nipples ; for their 14 gage spokes..

they can be bought by the hundred in a box.
the wrench size is a separate issue..
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Old 10-09-11 | 11:51 AM
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Determined by the rim....typically "sharp" aero rims with joint sleeves.

Mavic CXP-33 and Velocity DeepV have a very sharp profile PLUS the Velocity DeepV has a joint sleeve that increases nipple depth. Result is that if you are not careful - the bottom of your spoke wrench will scratch the anodized finish when using 10mm and 12mm nipples.

Basically, the nipple sits to deep in the rim with the wrench flats ending up to close to the rim surface.

14mm nipples are ideal for the Velocity DeepV...it's what I use when the customer okays it.

=8-)
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2. I like anyone will comment in other areas.
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Old 10-09-11 | 11:56 AM
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Originally Posted by AlphaDogg
Maybe I'm just immature, but I think the title of this thread is HILARIOUS.
Me too. I couldn't remember what website I was at for a minute...
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Old 10-09-11 | 03:06 PM
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Geez... what a bunch of juveniles. Watch what happens when I post:

"Lube Your Nipples!"
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Old 10-09-11 | 03:09 PM
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Originally Posted by mrrabbit
Determined by the rim....typically "sharp" aero rims with joint sleeves.

Mavic CXP-33 and Velocity DeepV have a very sharp profile PLUS the Velocity DeepV has a joint sleeve that increases nipple depth. Result is that if you are not careful - the bottom of your spoke wrench will scratch the anodized finish when using 10mm and 12mm nipples.

Basically, the nipple sits to deep in the rim with the wrench flats ending up to close to the rim surface.

14mm nipples are ideal for the Velocity DeepV...it's what I use when the customer okays it.

=8-)
Awesome, thanks. Do you ever use the newer 16mm for DeepV rims?
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Old 10-09-11 | 03:10 PM
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Originally Posted by Jeff Wills

"Lube Your Nipples!"
Then twist 'em real hard.
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Old 10-09-11 | 03:16 PM
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Originally Posted by Jeff Wills
Geez... what a bunch of juveniles. Watch what happens when I post:

"Lube Your Nipples!"
This one always brings down the house over at the Bike Kitchen. (local bike coop)
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Old 10-09-11 | 03:19 PM
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I prefer large nipples...
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Old 10-09-11 | 03:19 PM
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Originally Posted by Waves77
Awesome, thanks. Do you ever use the newer 16mm for DeepV rims?
Unless the customer requests it...nope.

Be default I use 12mm nipples on just about everything - adjust to 14mm when it's called for.

Not a bad idea to use 16mm for Mavic 819 Disc though...

=8-)
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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
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Old 10-09-11 | 03:21 PM
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Originally Posted by mrrabbit
Unless the customer requests it...nope.

Be default I use 12mm nipples on just about everything - adjust to 14mm when it's called for.

Not a bad idea thought to use 16mm for Mavic 819 Disc though...

=8-)
Thanks again, for some reason I couldn't find the info on this anywhere.
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Old 10-09-11 | 09:20 PM
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Originally Posted by Farmer Dave
I prefer large nipples...
"De gustibus non disputandum est"
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