Basic spoke replacement advice

[Stumpi]

Apoligies if this is in the wrong section for some reason I can't post in the tech section.

Just back from a run(Cytronex) and I overdid it pedaling up a hill in too high a gear. Part way up "ping" one of the spokes in the rear wheel broke. Its one of the draw backs of being a one legged cyclist. My left leg is very strong and provides most of the power but my pedaling tends to "pulse" and is not as smooth as it should be. It happens now and again and I really should learn to replace the spokes myself.

Can someone explain how to do it or point me in the direction of a decent set of instructions

Regards

Stumpi

 

[z0mb13e]

Replacing spokes is as easy as removing the tyre, tube and retrieving the nipple, pulling out the broke spoke, feeding the new spoke in the same way it came out - which can be tricky depending on how the wheel is laced - just look at the adjacent spokes to see if it goes over or under the spokes it passes - screw the nipple back on and tighten it up a little.

If you snap a single spoke then you might be able to get away with just tensioning the spoke but if you are unlucky then it might put the wheel out of true.

I built a wheel truing stand a while back and listed a few of the resources that helped me - (scroll down to post 7 I think)

http://www.pedelecs.co.uk/forum/electric-bicycles/5211-home-made-wheel-truing-stand.html

 

[Stumpi]

Many thanks that seem straight forward enough. I'll give it a go

Stumpi

 

[Mussels]

The gears might get in the way, then it's a PITA.

 

[z0mb13e]

Good point - a freewheel tool is cheap and makes life a lot easier...

Bikehut Professional Freewheel Tool from Halfords Price £6.99

 

[Stumpi]

All done(spoke was on the other side to the gears)

I have tightened to what feels like the right tension. All the spokes sound the same when tapped(If that means anything).

Bike on the work stand with the wheel spinning and it looks ok or more to the point doesnt look wonky, brakes don't bind so I assuming its all ok. Out for a run tomorrow so that will be the final test

Stumpi