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.

Troubleshooting Bicycle Disk Brakes

Here is a list of common issues that can occur with disc brakes on a bicycle, along with troubleshooting steps and fixes:

1. Squeaking or squealing noise:

   • Symptoms: High-pitched noise when applying the brakes.
   • Troubleshooting:
     • Clean the brake rotor and brake pads to remove any dirt or debris that may be causing the noise.
     • Inspect the brake pads for wear. If they are worn unevenly or have become contaminated, they may need to be replaced.
   • Fix:
     • Clean the brake rotor with isopropyl alcohol or a specialized disc brake cleaner.
     • Remove the brake pads and lightly sand them with fine-grit sandpaper to remove any glazing or contamination.
     • Reinstall the brake pads and ensure they are properly aligned with the rotor.
     • Bed in the brake pads by gradually applying the brakes and progressively increasing the force until the noise diminishes.

2. Brake lever feels spongy:

   • Symptoms: Excessive lever travel, poor braking response, lack of firmness.
   • Troubleshooting:
     • Check for air in the brake system or insufficient brake fluid.
   • Fix:
     • Start by bleeding the brake system to remove any air bubbles and ensure proper fluid circulation.
     • Follow the manufacturer's instructions or seek professional help if you are unfamiliar with the bleeding process.
     • If bleeding doesn't resolve the issue, inspect the brake hoses for leaks or damage. Replace any damaged hoses.
     • Check for proper alignment of the brake caliper and rotor, ensuring there is no interference or rubbing.
     • Adjust the brake lever reach if needed, ensuring a comfortable position for your hand.

3. Brake pads worn out:

   • Symptoms: Reduced braking performance, longer stopping distances, visible wear on the brake pads.
   • Troubleshooting:
     • Inspect the brake pads for wear. If the pad material is worn down to the wear indicators or below, they need to be replaced.
   • Fix:
     • Remove the old brake pads.
     • Install new brake pads that are compatible with your disc brake system.
     • Ensure the brake pads are properly aligned with the rotor.
     • Follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper bedding-in of the new brake pads.
     • Test the braking performance and make further adjustments if necessary.

4. Brake rotor contamination:

   • Symptoms: Poor braking performance, inconsistent braking, vibration or pulsation when applying the brakes.
   • Troubleshooting:
     • Check for oil, grease, or other contaminants on the brake rotor.
   • Fix:
     • Clean the brake rotor thoroughly with isopropyl alcohol or a specialized disc brake cleaner.
     • If the rotor is severely contaminated or damaged, it may need to be replaced.
     • Inspect the brake pads for contamination as well. Clean or replace them as necessary.
     • Check the brake caliper alignment and adjust if needed.
     • Bed in the brake pads to restore optimal braking performance.

5. Sticky or seized brake caliper:

   • Symptoms: Brakes not fully releasing, uneven or inconsistent braking, excessive heat buildup.
   • Troubleshooting:
     • Observe the movement of the brake caliper when applying and releasing the brakes.
   • Fix:
     • Check for any debris, rust, or corrosion on the brake caliper and its moving parts.
     • Clean the caliper thoroughly and lubricate any necessary contact points with an appropriate lubricant.
     • Ensure the brake caliper pistons move freely and retract properly.
     • If the caliper is severely damaged or worn, it may need to be replaced.
     • Verify proper alignment of the caliper with the rotor and adjust if necessary.

If you are unsure about performing any disc brake repairs or adjustments, or if the issue persists after troubleshooting, it is highly recommended to seek assistance from a professional bicycle mechanic to ensure the brakes are properly diagnosed and repaired for safe riding.

Troubleshooting Bicycle Caliper Brakes

Here is a list of common issues that can occur with caliper brakes on a bicycle, along with troubleshooting steps and fixes:

1. Brake pads worn out:

   • Symptoms: Reduced braking performance, screeching or squealing noise, excessive brake lever travel.
   • Troubleshooting:
     • Visually inspect the brake pads for wear. If the pad material is worn down to the wear indicators or below, they need to be replaced.
   • Fix:
     • Remove the old brake pads.
     • Install new brake pads that are compatible with your caliper brakes.
     • Ensure the brake pads are properly aligned with the braking surface.
     • Adjust the position of the brake pads if necessary.
     • Test the braking performance and make further adjustments if needed.

2. Misalignment of brake pads:

   • Symptoms: Uneven braking, scraping noise, reduced braking efficiency.
   • Troubleshooting:
     • Observe the position of the brake pads relative to the rim or braking surface. Look for signs of one pad contacting the rim before the other.
   • Fix:
     • Loosen the brake pad mounting bolt or nut.
     • Align the brake pads symmetrically on either side of the rim, ensuring they make even contact when the brake is applied.
     • Tighten the mounting bolt or nut while holding the brake pads in place.
     • Check for proper alignment and make further adjustments if necessary.
     • Test the braking performance.

3. Brake cable tension issues:

   • Symptoms: Spongy or loose brake lever feel, excessive brake lever travel, inadequate stopping power.
   • Troubleshooting:
     • Squeeze the brake lever and observe the amount of lever travel and the responsiveness of the brake caliper.
   • Fix:
     • Locate the barrel adjuster on the brake caliper or brake lever.
     • Turn the barrel adjuster clockwise to increase cable tension or counterclockwise to decrease tension.
     • Make small adjustments and test the brake lever feel and stopping power after each adjustment.
     • Ensure the brake pads are making even contact with the rim or braking surface.
     • If cable tension adjustments do not improve brake performance, inspect the brake cable for fraying or damage. Replace the cable if necessary.

4. Sticky or dirty brake caliper:

   • Symptoms: Brakes not releasing fully, uneven braking, poor modulation.
   • Troubleshooting:
     • Inspect the brake caliper for dirt, debris, or signs of corrosion.
   • Fix:
     • Clean the brake caliper using a mild solvent or degreaser and a clean cloth.
     • Ensure that all moving parts of the caliper, such as pivots and springs, are clean and lubricated.
     • Check for proper alignment of the caliper arms and brake pads.
     • Test the brake operation, ensuring smooth engagement and disengagement.
     • If cleaning and lubrication do not resolve the issue, consider replacing the caliper if it is severely worn or damaged.

5. Worn or damaged brake cables:

   • Symptoms: Excessive brake lever travel, decreased braking power, fraying or broken cables.
   • Troubleshooting:
     • Inspect the brake cables for signs of fraying, rust, or damage.
   • Fix:
     • If the cables are frayed or damaged, they should be replaced with new ones.
     • Loosen the cable anchor bolt on the brake caliper to release tension.
     • Remove the old cable from the brake lever and caliper.
     • Install the new cable, ensuring proper routing and tension.
     • Secure the cable with the anchor bolt on the caliper.
     • Adjust the cable tension using the barrel adjuster.
     • Test the braking performance and make further adjustments if necessary.

Remember, if you encounter any difficulties or are unsure about performing brake repairs or adjustments, it is recommended to seek assistance from a professional bicycle mechanic for proper diagnosis and repair to ensure your brakes are functioning safely and effectively.

The Rusty Brake Cables Story

Someone (a bike mechanic) emailed me this story:

I was elbow-deep in a tune-up when a disheveled customer walked into the shop, looking like he had seen a ghost. I greeted him and asked how I could help.

He replied, "I had a gnarly accident on my bike yesterday. I was cruising down a steep hill when I went to apply my brakes, but they didn't work. I couldn't stop, and I crashed into a fence."

I couldn't help but raise an eyebrow and ask, "Did you forget to check your brakes?"

The customer looked sheepish and admitted, "I haven't had a tune-up in years. I guess I forgot to check my brake cables for rust."

I couldn't resist the opportunity to tease him and quipped, "Well, now you know what it feels like to be a human cannonball!"

After the initial shock wore off, I got to work inspecting the bike. Sure enough, the brake cables were rusted and needed to be replaced. I also noticed some other areas of the bike that needed attention and recommended a full tune-up.

The customer agreed, and I set to work repairing and tuning the bike. As I worked, I joked with the customer about his daredevil stunt and stressed the importance of regular maintenance and safety checks.

Finally, the bike was ready, and the customer took it for a spin around the shop. He returned with a grin on his face and exclaimed, "It feels like a brand new bike! Thanks for fixing it and for the laughs."

I gave him a wink and replied, "No problem. Just remember, if you're gonna be a human cannonball, you better make sure your brakes are in tip-top shape!"

 

...

So yeah. You can tell this story is completely fabricated. Nobody says "gnarly" any more. I see this anecdotal story as being a bit like a fable that is supposed to teach a lesson, and that is the true lesson of this story.

Troubleshooting Bicycle Headsets

Here is a list of common issues that can occur with the headset on a bicycle and the corresponding troubleshooting steps and fixes:

1. Loose headset:

   • Symptoms: A rattling or knocking sound when riding, handlebars moving independently from the front wheel.
   • Troubleshooting:
     • Check the headset adjustment by holding the front brake and rocking the bike back and forth. If there is excess play or movement, the headset is likely loose.
   • Fix:
     • Loosen the stem bolts on the handlebars.
     • Tighten the top cap bolt on the headset using an Allen key.
     • Gradually tighten the stem bolts while ensuring the handlebars are properly aligned.
     • Test for any remaining play or movement and repeat the process if necessary.

2. Tight headset:

   • Symptoms: Difficulty turning the handlebars, excessive resistance when steering.
   • Troubleshooting:
     • Attempt to turn the handlebars to check if they are overly stiff or do not move smoothly.
   • Fix:
     • Loosen the top cap bolt slightly to relieve pressure.
     • Adjust the headset bearings by tightening or loosening the headset adjustment bolt.
     • Retighten the top cap bolt while ensuring the handlebars move freely without resistance.
     • Test the steering and readjust as needed.

3. Rough or gritty headset:

   • Symptoms: A rough or grinding feeling when turning the handlebars.
   • Troubleshooting:
     • Turn the handlebars slowly and feel for any resistance or roughness.
   • Fix:
     • Remove the front wheel and loosen the stem bolts.
     • Lift the stem away from the fork steerer tube and inspect the headset bearings.
     • Clean the bearings, bearing races, and fork steerer tube using a degreaser or a mild solvent.
     • Apply a small amount of fresh grease to the bearings.
     • Reassemble the headset, ensuring proper alignment and tension.
     • Tighten the stem bolts while checking for smooth movement of the handlebars.

4. Headset creaking:

   • Symptoms: Creaking or clicking noise when turning the handlebars.
   • Troubleshooting:
     • Pay attention to the sound coming from the headset area when steering.
   • Fix:
     • Remove the stem and handlebars from the fork steerer tube.
     • Clean the contact points between the stem, spacers, and fork steerer tube.
     • Apply a thin layer of carbon assembly paste or grease to the contact points.
     • Reassemble the headset, ensuring proper alignment and torque specifications.
     • Test the steering for any remaining noise and readjust as necessary.

5. Seized headset:

   • Symptoms: Inability to turn the handlebars at all.
   • Troubleshooting:
     • Attempt to turn the handlebars, feeling for complete resistance.
   • Fix:
     • Loosen the stem bolts.
     • Spray a penetrating oil or rust solvent onto the headset area.
     • Allow the solvent to penetrate for a few hours or overnight.
     • Apply gentle force to turn the handlebars back and forth, gradually increasing the pressure if needed.
     • Once the headset is freed, clean and lubricate the headset bearings as needed.
     • Reassemble the headset and ensure smooth movement.

If you are unsure or uncomfortable performing any headset repairs or adjustments, it is recommended to seek assistance from a professional bicycle mechanic to ensure the job is done correctly and safely.