What tension should spokes be?
Most rims have suggested ranges from 100 to 120 Kilograms-force, or 980 to 1177 Newtons. This is assuming there is no pressure in the tire. Though not super precise, squeezing is still a more accurate technique for judging spoke tension than feeling the amount of effort it takes to turn a spoke nipple.
How does a spoke tension meter work?
Basically they all apply a preset tension to a spoke (the same spoke and desired tension required for the particular wheel build), then a tensiometer reading is taken. The reading is just a number, that’s all, and you tension the spokes in the wheel to the same number.
Should all spokes be same tension?
They should all have approximately the same average tension. Due to imperfections in the hub and rim, the tension will rarely be exactly the same for all spokes. A difference of 20% between spokes is acceptable.
Is a spoke tension meter necessary?
When you get to low spokes counts and carbon rims which require higher tensions and more critically, even tension, then a tension meter becomes almost essential.
Do you need a spoke tension meter?
Why is spoke tension important?
Spoke tension is important to ensure your wheels are strong, reliable and long lasting. Spokes that are too loose will continue to loosen and require constant wheel truing. Spokes that are too tight will cause damage to the rim, spoke nipples and hub flanges.
How do you know if your spokes are tight enough?
Once the rim is free from blips and serious flat spots, check the tension of the spokes. Put your thumb around one spoke and your fingers around the spoke next to it and squeeze. The spokes should feel tight and firm. They should have just a little give when you squeeze them fairly hard.
What happens if spokes are too tight?
Can you over tighten spokes?
It is very easy to over tighten spokes. If you simply just turn the spoke (or nipple) until it feels tight or turn it as far as it will go with a spoke wrench, it may be too tight. It is important to check the tension after each time you tighten a spoke. This way if it is too tight, you can loosen it before riding.
How much does it cost to tighten bike spokes?
Always start with the most raised part of the bump, and adjust the spokes on either side less (one quarter turn, then one eighth turn) as you move away from the wobble area. Really pronounced wobbles may also require you to loosen spokes close to the bump which lead to the same side of the rim.