Torque—the rotational equivalent of linear force—enhances the integrity of mechanical assemblies when applied correctly. Torque values are integral to engineering design as they apply to fasteners at joints which can be a structure’s weak points. Knowing the intended torque makes us smarter, safer mechancis.
This is the motto of iGaging, one of the largest makers of measuring tools (who incidentally have no monopoly on accuracy). They’re one of many top companies doing great work in this very important field. Bicycle mechanics are in the most technical era of our industry but accuracy has never been optional.
Going back to the 19th century, bicycles were among the first widely used machines with precision. Ball bearings and tensioned wheels depend on tolerances that were tighter than engineering of the past. Ever since that time, mechanics are accustomed to frequent measuring while building and repairing bikes.
A rule in measurement—whenever possible use tools that are more accurate than you strictly need. Granted, much bike work can be done without measurement, experienced eyes can judge, compare, and test without knowing the precise numbers. Today, however, mechanics want to understand quantified guidelines, follow (and sometimes bend) them, keep records, and perform useful testing. Read more →
Much talk of rim washers these days. When to use them? Which are best? While seasoned builders have questions beyond this post, for the rest of us, here are some considerations about washers to keep in mind.
Washers are often invoked to prevent galvanic corrosion between nipples and carbon fiber. The materials of nipples (brass and aluminum) wants to exchange electrons with carbon fiber. Direct contact makes it easy for corrosion to occur.
Simply for the purpose of discouraging corrosion, are washers sometimes overkill? Some points on this topic: Read more →
We are changing indicators and dropping the price of our digital tensiometers. No reduction in accuracy! This change is an opportunity but necessary as the previous indicator was discontinued, replaced with one unsuitable to our tool.
The answer was to go with a lighter more compact indicator without a rotating bezel. Now (Jan 2019) our digital tool with EVA case is $248 (from $310) and with Nanuk case, $278 (from $340).
Rugged, compact, handsome.
The battery is still a longlasting 2032. For tensiometer nerds, here are 2 big advantages besides price.
For data output, besides manually transferring readings, a dedicated cable with foot pedal is available. The new system is entirely compatible the spokeservice.ca tension utility.
Meanwhile, please enjoy the savings and do your level best to be a true Tension Detective!
Top Velo, 1998
Fortunate are artisans who love what they make. This is certainly true for Marcel Borthayre, one of the most important names in France’s tradition of great wheel building. Thanks to the generous efforts of his daughter, Maryse, we can share some details of his cycling life. The clipping above, attests to his devotion to wheel building. Read more →
To build a wheel you must measure your hub and rim to determine spoke length. The better your measurements, the more accurate the spoke length prediction. Here’s a tool to make that easier.
Here is a definitive anti-friction, anti-vibration treatment for spoke threads. Apply to clean threads like paint. Allow to dry, then build and ride, reaping benefits beyond the reach of other products.
Why FIX?
Available in 15, 30, and 60ml bottles with instructions. For OE quantities, please inquire. 15ml fixes about 75 wheels, 30ml~150 wheels, and 60ml~300. Each bottle comes with a handy York tip that, if clogged, can be easily cleared with a spoke. We use LPDE extra soft bottles for easy dispensing.
Each experienced builder prefers a particular spoke thread treatment. For many, FIX is the hands-down best and yields the most luxurious and effective building experience. Imagine nipple adjustment at high tension with a smooth, almost hydraulic feeling.
High performance and heavily used bicycle wheels need nipple thread treatments. Here are some popular thread solutions and considerations.
For many experienced users. pro’s outweigh the con’s for each of these methods, There is certainly no best way to address the challenges of corrosion resist, building friction, and vibration loosening. If you, like me, prefer FIX, then you are willing to master its application so it does not add excess time. It offers the pleasure of super low thread friction, compatibility with any lubrication before or during the build. Once you have been spoiled, it’s hard to go back to any other thread treatment.
The chart below shows the relationship between nipple friction and spoke tension. For the sake of discussion, only 3 curves are showed— a FIX coated thread, an oiled thread, and an oiled and Loctite treated thread. Granted, this chart is not literal but it’s meant to convey a relationship.
A wheel needs some (hopefully small) friction at zero tension to resist vibration induced loosening. However friction should be as low as possible in the rest of the tension range, especially the tensions encountered in building.
You can see how a FIX treated wheel would be a delight to build and easy to adjust even at finished tensions. I trust your choice for wheelbuilding thread treatment, but maybe it’s time you tried another idea!
Click here to download a users guide.
October wheel building class in Port Townsend,
2 days + 6 rims and hubs + 192 spokes + 1 jolly teacher + 6 determined students (with an age range of over 60 years) = six excellent wheels and six future master builders!
Thanks to all who contributed to another successful Port Townsend Cycle School program!
September is on (2018) and there’s news to share. Up in Port Townsend, WA a new cycle school is getting underway and I taught Wheelbuilding 1 last weekend—twelve diverse students, a beautiful location, and 12 excellent wheels built.
Nice workstations.
The goals of wheel building and racing are the same—speed and efficiency. I am not a fan of most side stressing schemes for wheelbuilders because I believe they add time but not quality. The intention is noble—to make wheels more stable by relieving pent up stress in the freshly assembled structure. This is often done with the wheel supported at the rim on a table and a piston applying side load to the hub or all spokes facing the piston. This isn’t a cheap or compact tool. Granted, some of their users are very smart but… Read more →
