How to True a Bicycle Wheel WITHOUT using a Wheel Truing Stand

Truing a bicycle wheel without using a dedicated wheel truing stand may seem challenging, but it is possible with a few simple tools and techniques. While a truing stand provides more accuracy and precision, the following method can be helpful for minor adjustments or emergency situations. Eg. Like when you need to fix it after a crash and the wheel has tacoed (see photo on the right), but you still need to bicycle home.

Below is a detailed guide on how to true a bicycle wheel without a truing stand:

Tools needed:

• Bicycle frame (with the wheel mounted)
• Zip ties or rubber bands
• Brake pads (optional)
• Spoke wrench
• Wheel truing gauge (optional)

Step 1: Prepare the bicycle frame

1. Securely mount the bicycle wheel you want to true onto the bicycle frame.
2. Make sure the wheel is properly aligned in the dropouts and securely fastened with the quick-release skewer or axle nuts.

Step 2: Identify the problematic areas

1. Spin the wheel slowly and observe any lateral (side-to-side) or radial (up-and-down) deviations.
2. Look for areas where the rim comes closer to the brake pads or exhibits significant deviations.

Step 3: Lateral truing (side-to-side adjustment)

1. Identify the areas where the rim deviates laterally. These will be indicated by the gap between the rim and the brake pads (if the bike has rim brakes) or by observing the rim alignment with the frame.
2. Use zip ties or rubber bands to attach the brake pads to the seatstays or fork legs, ensuring they are positioned near the rim. This creates makeshift reference points for lateral truing.

Step 4: Radial truing (up-and-down adjustment)

1. Identify any areas where the rim deviates radially, either inward or outward. This can be observed by eye or by gently pressing the brake pads against the rim (if using rim brakes).
2. Locate the appropriate spokes that correspond to the areas where adjustment is needed.

Step 5: Making adjustments

1. To correct a lateral deviation, tighten the spoke(s) on the side of the rim where it needs to move towards. For example, if the rim is deviating to the right, tighten the spoke(s) on the left side of the wheel. If it is deviating to the left, tighten the spoke(s) on the right side.
2. To correct a radial deviation, tighten the spoke(s) on the side of the rim where it needs to move away from the frame or brake pads. For example, if the rim is deviating outward, tighten the spoke(s) on that side.
3. Use a spoke wrench to make small adjustments, turning the spoke nipples clockwise to tighten or counterclockwise to loosen.
4. Make incremental adjustments of 1/8 or 1/4 turn at a time to avoid over-tightening or causing further deviations.
5. After each adjustment, spin the wheel and observe the changes. Continue making adjustments until the deviations are minimized.

Step 6: Final inspection and testing

1. Spin the wheel and observe the trueness and alignment.
2. Check for any rubbing against the brake pads or frame.
3. Make further adjustments if necessary, repeating the previous steps.
4. Use a wheel truing gauge (if available) to check the trueness and ensure the wheel is within an acceptable range.
   

Note: Truing a wheel without a stand may not yield the same level of precision as using a dedicated truing stand. It is recommended to seek professional assistance or use a truing stand for more accurate and reliable results.

Remember, truing a wheel is a delicate process, and it may take time and practice to achieve optimal results. If you're uncertain or uncomfortable performing these adjustments without a truing stand, it's best to seek assistance from a professional bicycle mechanic for a more precise wheel truing.

Truing Stand Manufacturers for Bicycles

Here is a list of companies that manufacture truing stands for bicycles:

1. Park Tool: Park Tool is a well-known brand that offers a range of truing stands, including the TS-2.2 and TS-4.2 models. Their truing stands are widely used and trusted by both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.

2. Feedback Sports: Feedback Sports produces high-quality truing stands like the Pro Truing Stand. Their stands are known for their durability and precise adjustments, making them popular among cyclists and bike shops.

3. Minoura: Minoura manufactures truing stands such as the FT-1 Pro Wheel Truing Stand. Their stands are designed to provide stability and accurate measurements, ensuring efficient wheel truing.

4. Pedro's: Pedro's offers the Portable Truing Stand, which is a lightweight and compact option for on-the-go wheel truing. It provides basic truing functionality and is suitable for occasional use or traveling mechanics.

5. Unior: Unior produces a range of truing stands, including the 1688 Truing Stand and 1689 Truing Stand Pro. Their stands are known for their sturdy construction and precise truing capabilities.

6. VAR: VAR is a manufacturer that offers the 318 Professional Truing Stand, which is designed to accommodate various wheel sizes and provide accurate truing adjustments. Their stands are popular among professional mechanics.

7. Cyclus Tools: Cyclus Tools manufactures truing stands like the Truing Stand 720002. Their stands are known for their solid construction and ease of use, offering reliable truing capabilities.

8. DT Swiss: DT Swiss produces the DT Truing Stand, which is designed for high-precision truing of wheels. It features a user-friendly design and precise measuring options for professional wheel truing.

9. Tacx: Tacx offers the Tacx Truing Stand T3175, which provides a stable platform for wheel truing. It is suitable for both home mechanics and professional use.

10. Abbey Bike Tools: Abbey Bike Tools produces high-end truing stands like the Crombie Tool. Their stands are crafted with attention to detail and offer precise truing capabilities.

These companies provide a variety of truing stands to suit different budgets and needs. When choosing a truing stand, consider factors such as stability, adjustability, and accuracy to ensure optimal wheel truing results.

How to True a Bicycle Wheel using a Truing Stand and Gauges

Below is a detailed guide on how to true a bicycle wheel using a truing stand and gauges:

Tools needed:

• Truing stand: A device that securely holds the wheel and allows for precise adjustments.
• Spoke wrench: Used to tighten or loosen the spokes.
• Spoke tension gauge: Helps measure the tension of the spokes.
• Wheel truing gauge: Used to determine lateral and radial deviations in the wheel.

Step 1: Prepare the truing stand and wheel

1. Place the truing stand on a stable surface and ensure it is properly adjusted and leveled.
2. Insert the wheel into the truing stand, securing it using the quick-release or axle adapters.
3. Adjust the calipers of the truing stand so that they lightly touch the sides of the rim without exerting pressure.

Step 2: Assess the wheel's trueness

1. Spin the wheel gently and observe any lateral (side-to-side) or radial (up-and-down) deviations.
2. Use the wheel truing gauge to determine the extent of the deviations.
3. Identify any areas where the rim rubs against the calipers or exhibits significant deviations.

Step 3: Lateral truing (side-to-side adjustment)

1. Identify the areas where the rim deviates laterally. These will be indicated by the wheel truing gauge.
2. Locate the appropriate spokes that correspond to the areas where adjustment is needed.
3. To correct a deviation to the right, tighten the spoke(s) on the left side of the hub by turning the spoke wrench clockwise. To correct a deviation to the left, tighten the spoke(s) on the right side of the hub.
4. Make small adjustments by turning the spoke wrench in 1/4 or 1/2 turn increments.
5. After each adjustment, spin the wheel to check the trueness and repeat the process if necessary.
6. Aim for a balanced adjustment, tightening and loosening opposing spokes to maintain overall tension.

Step 4: Radial truing (up-and-down adjustment)

1. Identify any areas where the rim deviates radially, either inward or outward.
2. Locate the appropriate spokes that correspond to the areas where adjustment is needed.
3. To correct an inward deviation, tighten the spoke(s) on the same side as the deviation by turning the spoke wrench clockwise. To correct an outward deviation, tighten the spoke(s) on the opposite side.
4. Make small adjustments by turning the spoke wrench in 1/4 or 1/2 turn increments.
5. After each adjustment, spin the wheel to check the trueness and repeat the process if necessary.
6. Aim for an even adjustment, balancing the tension across the wheel.

Step 5: Tension balancing

1. Use a spoke tension gauge to measure the tension of the spokes around the wheel.
2. Adjust spoke tension as needed, aiming for equal tension on both sides of the wheel and maintaining a balanced wheel.
3. Make small adjustments to individual spokes using the spoke wrench.
4. Check the tension regularly as you make adjustments to ensure a balanced and properly tensioned wheel.

Step 6: Final inspection and testing

1. Spin the wheel and observe the trueness and alignment.
2. Check for any rubbing against the calipers or other parts.
3. If necessary, make further adjustments following the previous steps.
4. Once the wheel is properly trued, check the spoke tension again to ensure it remains balanced.

Remember, truing a wheel can be a delicate process that requires patience and attention to detail. If you're uncertain or uncomfortable performing these adjustments, it's recommended to seek assistance from a professional bicycle mechanic to ensure the wheel is properly trued for safe and optimal performance.