Taking SCARY out of used bikes, one bike at a time.
Let’s Talk Spokes
Broken Spokes. Spokes can break for many reasons. But the most common is the rear-wheel-drive side underneath the cassette. The reason is that has the most torque and has the highest stress from normal riding.
To check for broken spoke is simple. Just squeeze each pair and go around the wheel. If there is any broken they will pop out of place. Keep in mind sometimes they’re just missing, so look for gaps in the wheel where a spoke should be.
Reasons for broken spokes:
- High tension on drive side over long use.
- Over tensioning over the years of being true. (if your mechanic doesn’t check the tension and only true by tightening)
- Alloy ones can crack and break over time.
- Impact from a crash. Etc.
The cost on average is around $2-$10 per spoke and labor can range from $15-$25. Note: that’s if the wheel is stripped down. If you have a tubeless system it will cost you more because in order to get to the spoke nipple the tire, tube, and rim strip need to be removed.
Also when having a spoke replaced it’s a good time to check if the rim tape needs to be replaced and also the tires. If tubeless you’ll have to redo the sealant anyway so have the other wheel done as well so you know when both wheels have had the sealant replaced.
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