Bicycle spokes are a very simple but important part of a bicycle wheel. The spokes are installed to provide support to the rim by anchoring into the spoke and distributing pressure evenly around the wheel. Spokes also provide tension to the rim and help hold it in place when you are riding--this helps keep the wheel on a straight path. Over time, though, spokes can stretch, loosen and sometimes completely break. Even one broken spoke needs to be replaced to keep the wheel even and extend its life. Fortunately, you can do this at home.
Step 1
Remove the freewheel, if the spoke to be installed is on the rear wheel and it is still attached. This can be done by placing a section of the bike chain across the top of the largest cog, then standing on it for stability. Attach the freewheel tool to the free wheel and turn counterclockwise to loosen the freewheel, then left the freewheel and gear cogs off the axle.
Step 2
Thread the spoke into the hole at the center of the wheel.
Step 3
Carefully place the spoke into the spoke nipple along the rim of the wheel. You will have to bend the spoke slightly to get it into the nipple, but be careful not to bend the spoke permanently or snap it.
Step 4
Tighten the nipple around the spoke using your spoke key, then wiggle the spoke near the axle of the wheel and retighten. Once this is done, check the balance of the wheel by looking over the top of the wheel and making sure it is in alignment with the rest of the wheel at the point where you have installed a new spoke.
Step 5
Replace the freewheel by sliding the cogs back onto the axle, standing on the freewheel and turning it clockwise with your freewheel tool.
Tips and Warnings
- Be sure to clear out any left spoke parts from the spoke nipple before trying to install a new one. This can damage both the nipple and/or the new spoke if you try to force in a new spoke.
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