Spokes and Nipples

Please be aware that spokes come in many, many sizes to accomodate all the unique rims, hubs, and lacing patterns available - you can't simply guess and hope they will fit! There are several ways to determine the appropriate spoke size to order:

1. If you are replacing a broken spoke, simply measure an existing spoke from the same side of the same wheel, and order a replacement of the same size. our vendor partner offers Wheelsmith® brand spokes and nipples, which are measured as shown in Figure 1.

Figure 1: Measuring Wheelsmith® spokes

2. For new wheels, consult your sales rep. Let them know which rims and hubs you plan to use, and they'll help you determine the right size.

3. If you're unable to determine the correct size using other methods, precisely measure your existing rims and hubs, then use those measurements with a spoke length calculator to determine the appropriate size. The United Bicycle Institute offers an online spoke calculator, as does DT Swiss. Or use a spoke calculator. It makes good sense to try several calculators - the results should be very close from each. Remember that since rear hubs are rarely symmetrical, you'll need to perform this calculation three times - once for the front wheel, once for the drive side of the rear wheel, and once for the non-drive side of the rear wheel.

Some info sourced from our affiliate partner: Jensonusa