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.