Truing A Bicycle Wheel On The Bike
Truing a bicycle wheel is a process of adjusting the tension and alignment of the spokes to make the wheel run straight and true. A true wheel is essential for a smooth and safe ride. While most people may take their bike to a professional mechanic to true their wheels, it is possible to do it yourself with the right tools and knowledge. In this article, we will guide you through the process of truing a bicycle wheel on the bike.
Tools Required
Before starting the truing process, you will need the following tools:
- Spoke wrench
- Wheel truing stand (optional)
- Bike repair stand (optional)
Preparing the Bike
The first step in truing a bicycle wheel is to prepare the bike. Ideally, you should place the bike on a bike repair stand to make the process easier. If you don’t have a repair stand, you can flip the bike over and rest it on the handlebars and saddle.
Checking for Loose Spokes
Before truing the wheel, you need to check if any of the spokes are loose. To do this, grab each spoke and give it a gentle tug. If the spoke moves, it is loose and needs to be tightened.
Truing the Wheel
Now that you have checked for loose spokes, it’s time to start truing the wheel. If you have a wheel truing stand, place the wheel in it. If not, you can use the bike frame as a guide. Spin the wheel and watch the gap between the rim and the brake pads. Look for any spots where the gap is larger than others.
Once you have identified the spot where the wheel is out of true, use the spoke wrench to adjust the tension of the spokes. Tighten the spokes on the side of the rim where the gap is larger and loosen the spokes on the other side. Use small adjustments and check the wheel frequently to see if it’s becoming truer.
Checking the Alignment
After truing the wheel, check its alignment. Spin the wheel and observe if it wobbles from side to side. If it does, you will need to adjust the alignment. Loosen the axle nuts and adjust the position of the wheel until it runs straight. Tighten the nuts and test the alignment again.
Final Checks
Once you have trued and aligned the wheel, give it a final check by spinning it and observing if it runs straight and true. Check the tension of all the spokes to ensure they are evenly tightened.
Conclusion
Truing a bicycle wheel on the bike is a simple process that can be done with the right tools and knowledge. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your bike rides smoothly and safely. Remember to check your wheels periodically to ensure they are still true and aligned.