5

So the story began some 4 years ago, when I bent my rear derailleur hanger while crashing, and my chain got stuck between the cassette and the wheel scratching a few spokes. Everything was fine until this year when some of these spokes started to snap and I had to replace them.

I have 32 DT Revolution spokes that are 1.8-1.5-1.8mm in diameter and replaced 4 of them from the drive side to plain 2.0mm spokes. I trued the wheel with no problems and after some 500km everything looks fine.

The question is: for how long? Will the thicker spokes exert more side force and lead to over-tensing the other side? Or is there a risk in quicker fatigue of spokes on either side?

Improve this question
2
  • Some people used to build rear Campy wheels with different thickness of spokes on both sides due to the large dish required.
    – Batman
    Commented Nov 10, 2014 at 19:22
  • 5
    The wheel will not stay quite as true nor last quite as long as a "proper" one, but the difference is probably not worth worrying about (even though purists will have a conniption).
    – Daniel R Hicks
    Commented Nov 11, 2014 at 1:12

1 Answer 1

Reset to default
4

Given the age of the wheel, you're going to continue to snap older spokes from time to time. Don't worry about the gauge of the replacement spoke. Assuming it's within the range of appropriate tension, as long as it pulls true there's not much to be concerned about. I have multiple wheels with some of the thinnest gauge spokes available (Sapim CX Rays) with straight gauge replacement spokes. No issues to report.

Improve this answer

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge you have read our privacy policy.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.