Wheel build initial tensioning problem
#1
Thread Starter
Senior Member
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 94
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From: Southwestern Ontario
Bikes: Surly LHT, Kona Big Honzo, CX frankenbike
Wheel build initial tensioning problem
I'm building my first wheel. It's a rear wheel. I got the spokes at the LBS, they measured the hub and rim for me to figure out the correct lengths. I've also confirmed their measurements using the DT Swiss calculator and manufacturer's specs.
I followed Sheldon Brown's guide, have read through Jobst Brant's book, and watched some videos on Youtube. I'm fairly confident that I got the lacing pattern right.
Now, the problem: It seems that all of the spokes going one way (trailing) are quite loose after lacing, while the leading spokes are fairly tight. The last few leading spokes were a struggle to get into the nipples.
Is this normal?
Secondly, I thought the problem would resolve itself as I started the initial tensioning. While I was doing this, a few spokes popped out of their nipples. They would have only been in by a few threads. Should I replace those nipples before I try to correct this problem?
I followed Sheldon Brown's guide, have read through Jobst Brant's book, and watched some videos on Youtube. I'm fairly confident that I got the lacing pattern right.
Now, the problem: It seems that all of the spokes going one way (trailing) are quite loose after lacing, while the leading spokes are fairly tight. The last few leading spokes were a struggle to get into the nipples.
Is this normal?
Secondly, I thought the problem would resolve itself as I started the initial tensioning. While I was doing this, a few spokes popped out of their nipples. They would have only been in by a few threads. Should I replace those nipples before I try to correct this problem?
#2
Senior Member


Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 3,518
Likes: 40
From: San Jose, California
Bikes: 2001 Tommasini Sintesi w/ Campagnolo Daytona 10 Speed
You didn't lace correctly....probably started out what would have been 3-cross one way but did the equiv. of 2-cross the other way...or staggered one hole incorrectly on the opposing flange...
Go back...check your lacing again...
=8-)
Go back...check your lacing again...
=8-)
__________________
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
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
#3
Easy to mess the lacing up. I'm sure we've all done it. I know I have.
#4
Thread Starter
Senior Member
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 94
Likes: 2
From: Southwestern Ontario
Bikes: Surly LHT, Kona Big Honzo, CX frankenbike
Yeah, I plan on relacing to be sure I got it right. Just wanted to make sure it wasn't normal for things to be off so much.
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musicsucks
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08-28-11 04:48 AM






