Maintaining your Next R 36 Carbon [paid link] wheels from Race Face is essential to ensure they continue performing optimally and provide the reliability and smoothness that road cyclists demand. These carbon wheels are built for durability and performance, but proper care is necessary to prevent issues like flat spots and ensure they last for many miles.

Tools Required

• Torque wrench [paid link]
• 5mm Allen key
• 10mm wrench
• Spoke tension meter
• Cleaning solution (mild dish soap or bike-specific cleaner)
• Microfiber cloth
• Carbon paste (optional)
• Rim tape (if needed)
• Wheel truing stand (optional)

Understanding the Causes of Flat Spots

Flat spots on carbon wheels are often caused by several factors, including improper inflation, impacts from potholes or curbs, and poor maintenance of spoke tension. Since the Next R 36 Carbon [paid link] wheels feature a lightweight yet strong carbon fiber construction, these issues can be more prominent if the wheels are not properly cared for. Flat spots occur when the wheel loses its true shape, which can result in poor ride quality, reduced performance, and even damage to the rim.

Proper Inflation to Prevent Flat Spots

One of the primary reasons for flat spots on your Next R [paid link] 36 Carbon wheels is improper tire inflation. Over-inflating or under-inflating tires can lead to uneven wear and flat spots.

Correct Tire Pressure

• Check the manufacturer’s recommended tire pressure, typically marked on the sidewall of the tire.
• Use a high-quality floor pump with a pressure gauge to ensure you achieve the desired tire pressure.
• For road cycling, the optimal range is usually between 80 and 130 psi, depending on the tire width and rider weight.
• Use a digital or dial gauge to check the pressure consistently.

Maintaining proper tire pressure not only improves performance but also prevents unnecessary stress on the rim, reducing the risk of flat spots.

Spoke Tension and Truing the Wheel

Maintaining proper spoke tension is essential for keeping your Next R [paid link] 36 Carbon wheels true. Uneven spoke tension can cause the wheel to become misaligned or develop flat spots over time. A true wheel ensures that the rim remains round and even, preventing unwanted contact with the tire.

Step-by-Step Guide to Check Spoke Tension

1. Place the wheel on a truing stand to check for any side-to-side or up-and-down wobbling.
2. Inspect spoke tension: Using a spoke tension meter, measure each spoke’s tension. Ensure that all spokes are evenly tightened to avoid any weak spots that could lead to flat spots or breakage.
3. Adjust spoke tension: If you notice that some spokes are too loose or too tight, use a spoke wrench to adjust them. Tightening or loosening spokes in small increments helps maintain even tension across the entire wheel.
4. Check for true alignment: After adjustments, spin the wheel and check for any wobbles. A slight side-to-side motion can indicate that the wheel is not properly aligned.

Inspecting and Replacing Rim Tape

Rim tape is critical in ensuring that your carbon rims are protected from punctures and damage caused by the inner tube. If rim tape becomes worn or damaged, it can lead to uneven tire contact with the rim, which might cause flat spots.

How to Check and Replace Rim Tape

• Remove the tire and inner tube from the rim carefully.
• Inspect the rim tape: Look for any signs of wear, tears, or gaps. If you notice any damage, replace the rim tape immediately.
• Install new rim tape: Ensure that the new tape fits snugly inside the rim, covering all spoke holes to prevent damage to the inner tube.
• Reinstall the tire and tube, ensuring that everything is seated correctly before inflating.

Rim tape maintenance is vital for ensuring that your wheels remain damage-free, especially when riding over rough terrain that could stress the carbon rims.

Regular Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleanliness is a key factor in preventing damage and flat spots on carbon wheels. Regular cleaning removes dirt, debris, and moisture that can cause corrosion or affect the wheel’s performance.

Cleaning Process for the Next R 36 Carbon Wheels

1. Remove the wheel from the bike and use a mild dish soap solution with warm water.
2. Wipe the rim and spokes: Use a microfiber cloth to gently wipe down the carbon rim and spokes. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasives that could damage the carbon surface.
3. Inspect for damage: While cleaning, look for any cracks, chips, or signs of impact damage on the carbon rim.
4. Dry thoroughly: After cleaning, make sure the wheels are completely dry before reinstalling the tire to prevent moisture from affecting the rim.

Using carbon paste when re-installing parts like the cassette or freehub can help prevent creaking and ensure smooth operation over time.

How to Avoid Impact Damage

Carbon wheels like the Next R 36 Carbon are susceptible to damage from impacts such as potholes, curbs, or debris on the road. These impacts can cause dents, cracks, or flat spots on the rims.

Tips to Avoid Impact Damage

• Be mindful of road conditions: Always try to avoid rough roads or areas with large potholes and sharp objects.
• Ride with proper technique: If you can’t avoid a rough patch of road, try to absorb the impact by lifting slightly off the saddle, reducing the force on the wheels.
• Check tire clearance: Ensure that your tires have sufficient clearance to prevent rubbing, which can lead to tire wear and impact damage to the rim.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with regular care, issues with flat spots or wheel performance can arise. Here are some common troubleshooting tips:

1. Uneven Tire Wear

• Cause: This can occur if the tire pressure is inconsistent or if the wheel is out of true.
• Solution: Check the tire pressure, ensure proper inflation, and use a spoke tension meter to ensure that spoke tension is even.

2. Wobbly Wheels

• Cause: Wobbles are usually due to improperly tensioned spokes or damage from impacts.
• Solution: Check spoke tension using a spoke tension meter, and if the wobble persists, consider professional wheel truing.

3. Noise or Creaking Sounds

• Cause: This is often caused by parts like the cassette or freehub not being installed properly, or the wheel not being tightened correctly.
• Solution: Reinstall the components with a small amount of carbon paste, ensuring that everything is properly torqued.

Conclusion

Maintaining your Next R 36 Carbon wheels requires regular attention to prevent flat spots, ensure smooth performance, and extend their lifespan. By following the proper maintenance routines, including proper inflation, spoke tension checks, and regular cleaning, you can keep your wheels in top condition for optimal road performance. Be vigilant about impact damage and ensure that all components, including rim tape, are in good working order to avoid issues that could affect your ride. By doing so, you’ll enjoy a smooth, efficient ride every time you hit the road.