Aligning a bicycle wheel also is called truing a wheel. The crisscross pattern of the spokes allows you to align the rim so it is equidistant from the hub at all points. Tightening the spokes to uniform tension maintains the wheel alignment when you ride. Aligning a spoke wheel takes patience because it often involves readjusting the spoke tension to get the desired result. You can align a wheel with a method that many experienced riders use in the shop and on the road.
Step 1
Turn the bike upside down and balance it on the seat and handlebars. Take a position at the front of the bike.
Step 2
Rotate the front wheel by hand and observe the distance between the brake pads at the side-pull or disc brake caliper and each side of the rim. Identify any point where the rim is closer to a pad. This indicates the corresponding spoke at the opposite side of the wheel is loose and or has less tension than its counterpart.
Step 3
Tighten the corresponding spoke nut at the opposite side of the wheel with a spoke wrench. Rotate the wheel again and establish whether the spoke has adequate tension so the wheel is aligned equally between the brake pads.
Step 4
Loosen or tighten the spoke nut as necessary to align that point in the wheel. If necessary, repeat the procedure when you notice other points on the wheel rim that are not equidistant from the brake pads.
Step 5
Position yourself next to the rear wheel of the bike. Rotate the pedals by hand and observe the distance between the rear brake pads at the side-pull or disc brake caliper and each side of the rim. Identify any point at which the rim is closer to a pad.
Step 6
Repeat the alignment procedure if you notice one or more points on the rim that are not equidistant from the brake pads. Rotate both wheels again and make any final adjustments to the alignment, if necessary.
Tips and Warnings
- Spoke wrenches are specific to spoke nuts. Always use the correct spoke wrench.
Things You'll Need
- Spoke wrench
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