Author Topic: Wheel build spoking question  (Read 6355 times)

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Offline Tasmanian

Wheel build spoking question
« on: November 21, 2011, 12:56:12 am »
Does  it  matter  the  trailing  spokes are  on  the  inside  of  the  flange   ???
I  have  had  a  wheel  built  around  a  Rohloff  hub  &  noticed  the trailing  spoke  heads  are  on  the inside  not  the  outside
THe guy  who  did  it  said  he  cant  see  it  making  any  difference,  if  so  why  would  rohloff  &  Sheldon  Brown instruct  to  have  trailing  spokes  to the inside  of  the flange with  the  heads  on  the  outer ?
anyone ?

Offline Pat Lamb

Re: Wheel build spoking question
« Reply #1 on: November 21, 2011, 10:03:53 am »
This is a second- or third-order concern.  It's far, far, far more important that the spokes be tensioned and stress-relieved correctly.  That's what will drive wheel longevity.  Next, I'd worry about getting tire labels lined up with the valve.  That'll help you find the leak when fixing a flat.

If the orientation of trailing spokes is keeping you awake at night after those important things, remember Sheldon also wrote, "Note: This is not an important issue! There is a sizable minority of good wheelbuilders who prefer to go the other way around, and good wheels can be built either way."

If, after all that, you're still uptight, put a spoke protector on the wheel.  That'll shield the spokes.  And try to keep the derailer limit screws adjusted correctly.  Then relax and go for a bike ride!

Offline RussSeaton

Re: Wheel build spoking question
« Reply #2 on: November 21, 2011, 12:41:46 pm »
The reason to have trailing spokes with their head to the outside, and spoke length to the inside, is because when you pedal, these spokes will load up with tension and straighten out.  Thus pulling them a tiny tiny bit closer to the hub body and chain.  And maybe maybe in just the right circumstance have the chain get into the spokes.  You could also win the lottery tonight.  I've built a number of wheels and don't think I ever pay attention to this.  Don't recall ever having a chain go into the spokes either.

Offline DaveB

Re: Wheel build spoking question
« Reply #3 on: November 22, 2011, 10:53:44 am »
.  And try to keep the derailer limit screws adjusted correctly. 
Not an issue, this bike has a Rohloff hub.