Brompton Double Wall Rims
 

Hi,

Looks like I'll need to replace my Brompton rear rim again soon. So I looked on the SJS site to order the bits.

However the site now describes them as "Brompton 16 x 1 3/8 (349) Angle Drilled Double Wall Rim - 28H" http://www.sjscycles.co.uk/brompton-...28h-prod31190/

I don't remember the old rims being double walled. Have they changed them? Seems to me that if they're now getting the rigidity out of tubular construction they will be thinner and wear out quicker?

Anyone rebuilt a Brompton wheel recently?

I don't have a Brompton, but on my small wheelers 16"- 20" I have double rims and one set of cheap single rims.

In general terms the double rims are stronger.

I've used BMX Alienation Ankle Biter rims for rebuilding 20" x 1 3/8 "wheels, very good rims if you can find them at the correct size and discounted. Got mine from customriders who sell bmx bikes and parts.

I expect you'll need new spokes too?

Beic

Yes, Brompton updated rims, brake levers, and chainring with the 2013 models.

Yes, New Rear Specific ones are also directionally drilled .. so spoke line is in the rim. stronger that way..

Note to Belc 349 ETRO, is a larger rim smaller high pressure tire, 16" rim. smaller than 406 20" rims..

just replaced the spoke or 2, on my old Mk2

then recently swapped out single wall front wheels , 2nd one with a shimano dynohub..

the single wall rim same front and back ..

New spec. the rim is different rear & front.


As you are changing from 1 rim to another, without , likely, not needing different spokes

tape the new rim to the old one and move the spokes over 1 by 1... still attached to the hub..

Ok. Looks like this upgrade is not optional which is fair enough. Interesting to see if it lasts as long. Shame as I was planning on reusing the spokes this time. Last 3 rebuilds I've always bought new ones. Still on the original hub.

By the way I replaced the chainwheel/crank unit a couple of months ago. I asked about the new spider+chainring I could see on the new bikes but it seems that not all models use them. Is this true or was I looking at old stock? Logically it should be cheaper to replace the ring - and I can move it round to even out wear. The original chainring was completely out of shape. I estimate I should be replacing it every 12 to 18 months.

You should definitely stop using the back brakes. Lesson I learned while commuting. I have learned the habit not to use the back at all except during emergency stops. Now, rear rim wear is a thing of the past, and the front lasts much longer anyway while providing the vast majority of stopping power.

If you don't believe me, check Sheldon Brown.

are you assuming or did you already talk to the Dealer ?

Brompton is all about retro compatibility , ask at the company , they respond to individual emails ..

I got a warrantee left pedal direct from them.

as to the spider crank , you may be able to use another 130 bcd road crank .

There is the option of Surly's Stainless steel chainrings up to 50t. very long wearing.

I got the new ring/crank from the dealer I got the bike from for that very reason. When asked he reckoned just the ring on the new set would be a similar price. And I was in a hurry so I didn't pursue it! I really need to buy spares before I need them. But it gets rather expensive.

That's interesting. I've replaced many chains as well due to stretch. I reckon a lot of that is down to a worn chainring. So could save money all round!

I use a Surly SS 38t/110bcd on my R'off IGH (26" wheel) .. bike..

Note: I find, older full bushing type chain is a bit longer wearing , than the 5,6,7,8 speed derailleur chain s ..
which are bushing-less (actually a flange is made of the steel punched out of the hole, roller edge rides on that)

Just to close off this thread.

+ The old rims are still available. Got one from "On Your Bike".
- Looked at a new rim. They're worryingly light!
+ Can now change a rim in an hour while watching TV.
- Now on fifth rim in four years

Oh and just noticed the front bearing has gone. Hope it just needs cones and bearings!