Radial spokes
 

I want to replace the rim on a radially laced wheel (rim brakes have taken their toll). Is a special rim required?

Thanks.

No, the rim doesn't care how it is laced but a rigid, deep section rim will work better if the spoke count is relatively low. Some hubs are said not to tolerate radial lacing as the flanges may not be strong enough.

It will make it easier to get the same rim and tape it to the old one. You can then remove the spokes from one and place them on the new one.

Be sure the orientation of the new rim matches that of the old one when taping them together.

If you plan to reuse the same spokes the new rim needs to have the same (or close) ERD as the original. Before taking apart the old rim note how close to the top of the nipples the spokes reach. That will tell you if the new rim can be have a slightly larger or smaller ERD, and by how much, in case you can't find an exact match.

Otherwise, new rim, new spokes.

BTW- it's very easy to overtighten radial wheels. Resist that temptation lest you shatter the hub.

Thank you. That is very helpful info. If the ERD doesn't allow, I'll order new spokes. I've only used Swiss DT Comp DB SS spokes, so can I assume they are OK w/radial lacing?

Thanks, again.

The spokes don't care either way, since they're under the same line of forces either way. Only the hub flange cares because the stresses can be higher, and in a direction they're not designed to resist well.