DIY Guide to Truing Your EX 1700 SPLINE Wheels

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The EX 1700 SPLINE [paid link] wheels from DT Swiss are a popular choice among road cyclists due to their durability and performance. However, even the highest quality wheels require maintenance to ensure they perform optimally. One critical maintenance task is wheel truing, which involves correcting any slight bends, wobbles, or irregularities in the wheel’s shape. This guide will walk you through the process of truing your EX 1700 SPLINE [paid link] wheels, covering the necessary tools, step-by-step instructions, and troubleshooting tips.

Tools Required

To properly true your EX 1700 SPLINE wheels, you will need the following tools:

  • Truing stand
  • Spoke wrench (compatible with DT Swiss nipples)
  • Dial indicator (optional, for precision measurement)
  • Ruler or caliper (for measuring lateral and radial runout)
  • Needle nose pliers (for fine adjustments)
  • Lubricant (optional, for spoke threads)

Preparing Your EX 1700 SPLINE Wheels for Truing

Before you start truing your wheels, it’s essential to prepare them properly:

  1. Clean the Wheel: Ensure the wheel is free of dirt and debris. Clean the rim, spokes, and hub thoroughly using a mild cleaner and a soft brush. This step will prevent any interference during the truing process.
  2. Inspect the Wheel: Check the wheel for any major damage, such as broken spokes or a cracked rim. If you find any, replace the damaged parts before proceeding with truing.
  3. Mount the Wheel in the Truing Stand: Secure the wheel in a truing stand, making sure it’s centered and the rim is free to rotate smoothly. A properly mounted wheel ensures accurate truing.

Understanding Wheel Truing

Wheel truing is the process of adjusting the tension of the spokes to correct any deviations in the wheel’s alignment. There are two types of deviations to look for:

  • Lateral runout: This occurs when the wheel wobbles from side to side.
  • Radial runout: This happens when the wheel is out of round, causing it to bulge or dip in certain areas.

Your goal is to adjust the spoke tension to eliminate these deviations, making the wheel true.

Step-by-Step Guide to Truing Your EX 1700 SPLINE Wheels

1. Check for Lateral Runout

Lateral runout causes the wheel to wobble from side to side. Here’s how to correct it:

  • Spin the Wheel: Slowly spin the wheel in the truing stand and observe the rim’s movement. Pay attention to any side-to-side wobbling.
  • Mark the High and Low Spots: Use a dial indicator or ruler to identify the spots where the rim deviates from the true line.
  • Adjust the Spokes: Starting with the spot that deviates the most, use your spoke wrench to tighten or loosen the spokes on either side of the deviation. Tightening a spoke will pull the rim toward the hub, while loosening it will push the rim away.
  • Check and Recheck: After making each adjustment, spin the wheel again to see if the wobble has been corrected. Continue making small adjustments until the wheel is centered and has minimal lateral runout.

2. Check for Radial Runout

Radial runout occurs when the wheel is not perfectly round. Here’s how to adjust it:

  • Spin the Wheel: Spin the wheel slowly again and observe the areas where the rim dips or bulges.
  • Identify the High and Low Spots: Using a dial indicator or ruler, mark where the wheel deviates from a round shape.
  • Adjust the Spokes: To correct radial runout, tighten the spokes at the bulging area to reduce the dip. For areas that are dipping, loosen the spokes to allow the rim to rise.
  • Repeat the Process: Similar to lateral runout, make small adjustments and recheck the wheel’s roundness after each change.

3. Maintain Even Tension Across All Spokes

When truing your wheel, it’s crucial to maintain even spoke tension throughout. Uneven spoke tension can lead to poor wheel performance and decreased lifespan.

  • Check Spoke Tension: Use a spoke tension meter to ensure that all the spokes are tensioned equally.
  • Adjust Spokes if Necessary: If you notice that any spokes are significantly tighter or looser than others, adjust them accordingly to even out the tension.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even after careful adjustments, you may encounter a few issues while truing your EX 1700 SPLINE wheels. Here are some common problems and solutions:

1. Wheel Still Wobbles After Adjusting Spokes

  • Possible Cause: One or more spokes may have been missed, or a spoke might be too loose or tight.
  • Solution: Double-check all the spokes and ensure that the tension is even across the entire wheel. If necessary, adjust the tension again, focusing on the areas that still exhibit runout.

2. Difficulty Achieving Roundness

  • Possible Cause: The wheel may have sustained a significant impact, leading to a more severe structural issue.
  • Solution: If you find it challenging to get the wheel perfectly round, it may be necessary to replace the rim or consult a professional mechanic for a more thorough inspection.

3. Spoke Tension Appears Unstable

  • Possible Cause: Spokes may be worn or damaged, leading to inconsistent tension.
  • Solution: Check the spokes for any visible signs of damage or wear. If any spokes are broken or cracked, replace them before continuing the truing process.

Customizing and Optimizing Your EX 1700 SPLINE Wheels

After truing your EX 1700 SPLINE wheels, you can optimize them for better performance. Here are a few tips:

  • Lubricate the Spokes: Apply a small amount of lubricant to the threads of the spokes to reduce friction and ensure smooth adjustments in the future.
  • Upgrade the Nipples: Consider replacing the nipples with lighter or stronger alternatives to reduce overall weight or improve the wheel’s durability.
  • Adjust the Tension for Performance: Riders who prioritize performance may adjust spoke tension slightly higher for a stiffer wheel, which can improve acceleration and handling.

Comparison with Similar Models

The EX 1700 SPLINE is known for its balance between strength and weight, making it a reliable choice for road cyclists. However, compared to other wheels like the DT Swiss PR 1400 DICUT or the Mavic Ksyrium Elite, the EX 1700 SPLINE tends to be more robust, offering greater durability at the cost of slightly higher weight. Riders seeking a lightweight, high-performance option may prefer the PR 1400 DICUT, while those who prioritize durability and a reliable ride in varied conditions may find the EX 1700 SPLINE to be the better option.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The EX 1700 SPLINE wheels are compatible with a wide range of drivetrains, including Shimano and SRAM 11-speed systems. They also feature a Ratchet System freehub, making them compatible with most modern drivetrains. When installing your EX 1700 SPLINE wheels, ensure that the freehub body is compatible with your cassette and drivetrain specifications.

Proper compatibility ensures optimal shifting performance and smooth gear transitions, making your cycling experience more enjoyable.

By following these steps and tips, you can keep your EX 1700 SPLINE wheels in top condition, ensuring they continue to deliver excellent performance for miles to come.