Key Question.

[neptune]

I pride myself on being above average when it comes to bike repairs. But one thing always seems to give me problems, and that is dealing with spoke adjustment. When it comes to turning spoke nipples, I always find the the key slips and fails to turn the nipple. I obviously need a new spoke key. Any recommendations, and all nipples the same size?

 

[flecc]

There are many nipple sizes, so the best bet is often a ring type key with all the popular size slots in it. Here's a low cost one and one from a known tools name, Draper.
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[neptune]

Good on ya, flecc, I have ordered the same tool from an ebay seller. I have just been given a pedal cycle, which has two flat tyres and many loose spokes in the rear wheel. I hate to see potentially serviceable bikes go to the scrap yard.

 

[shemozzle999]

I've built several wheels and never rounded a nipple yet using this tool:

Fat Spanner Multi Spoke Key for MTB / Road Bike / Cycle Parts & Accessories

 

[Deleted member 4366]

It's not just the tool that causes rounded nipples. You have to slide the key all the way up once engaged with the nipple before you turn it.

 

[KirstinS]

I was browsing a copy of Viz's Profanasaurus before I found this thread

I just can't take it seriously now !

 

[neptune]

Hi guys and thanks for all replies. Well I got my new multisize spoke key today. and its a revelation. It works first time every time. Some times, when we are struggling, we just need to give ourselves a kick up the ****. They say a bad workman blames his tools. But the best workman with rubbish tools will turn out a rubbish job.We are fortunate today. Reasonable quality tools are cheaper than they have ever been. And if we are in need of instruction, it can usually be found on Youtube. I have got the said wheel into a useable condition, it is true within about 3mm. I might tweak it a bit more tomorrow, and then there is the front wheel to do. Happy days.

 

[Scimitar]

There's nothing like the feeling of a tool that's just right.