How to Replace Spokes on EX 1700 SPLINE Wheels

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Replacing the spokes on your DT Swiss EX 1700 SPLINE [paid link] wheels can significantly extend their lifespan and ensure optimal performance. While this task may seem daunting for beginners, with the proper tools and a step-by-step guide, it can be accomplished efficiently. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of replacing spokes on these wheels, troubleshooting common issues, and offering tips on how to optimize performance.

Tools Required

Before you begin, make sure you have the necessary tools:

  • Spoke wrench
  • 3mm, 4mm, and 5mm Allen wrenches [paid link]
  • Chain whip (optional)
  • Cassette removal tool (if needed)
  • Truing stand (highly recommended)
  • Dial caliper or spoke tension meter
  • Spoke replacement kit (matching DT Swiss EX 1700 spokes)
  • Tire levers (if tire removal is required)

Step 1: Prepare Your Wheel

Before you begin removing any spokes, it’s essential to prepare your wheel. This includes detaching the wheel from your bike and removing the tire, tube, and cassette (if necessary).

Removing the Wheel

  1. If the wheel is still attached to your bike, remove it carefully. Use a quick release or through axle depending on your setup.
  2. If your wheel has a cassette, you’ll need to remove it using a cassette removal tool and chain whip.

Remove the Tire

  1. Use tire levers to remove the tire from the rim if it’s not already off.

Once you have the wheel off the bike and the tire removed, place the wheel on a flat, stable surface or use a truing stand for added precision during the spoke replacement process.

Step 2: Identify the Damaged Spokes

Carefully inspect the wheel to identify which spokes are damaged or broken. It’s essential to replace all damaged spokes to maintain the wheel’s integrity and ensure proper tension across the entire wheel.

  1. Check each spoke for signs of wear, bending, or breakage.
  2. For a more thorough inspection, use a spoke tension meter to assess the tension on each spoke and identify the ones that need replacement.

Step 3: Remove the Broken Spokes

Once you’ve identified the damaged spokes, you can begin the removal process.

  1. Loosen the spoke nipple on the damaged spoke using a spoke wrench. Be sure to turn it counterclockwise.
  2. If the spoke is completely broken, you can gently pull the remaining piece out of the wheel.
  3. If only part of the spoke is broken, you may need to remove the wheel from the hub to get full access to the broken section.

Step 4: Replace the Spokes

Now it’s time to replace the broken spokes with new ones.

  1. Place the new spoke through the hub and ensure it is correctly threaded into the appropriate spoke hole.
  2. Insert the spoke nipple at the rim and hand-tighten it to secure the spoke in place.
  3. Repeat this process for each broken spoke, making sure the new spokes are inserted into the same holes and on the correct side of the hub (the spoke pattern should be followed exactly).

Step 5: True the Wheel

Once all the new spokes are installed, the wheel may be out of true. Truing is the process of adjusting spoke tension to ensure the wheel is perfectly straight.

  1. Use a truing stand to mount the wheel and spin it slowly to observe where the wheel is out of true.
  2. If the wheel wobbles, adjust the spoke nipples on the side that needs tensioning.
  3. Tighten or loosen the nipples incrementally to get the wheel as true as possible.
  4. After adjusting, recheck the tension on all spokes to ensure even distribution.

Step 6: Tension the Spokes

Proper spoke tension is crucial to the durability and performance of your wheel. An uneven spoke tension can lead to poor performance, uneven wear, and even wheel failure.

  1. Use a spoke tension meter to check the tension on all spokes.
  2. Adjust the nipple tension on each spoke to ensure it falls within the recommended range.
  3. Double-check the spoke tension after a few rides to make sure the tension remains consistent.

Troubleshooting Common Spoke Issues

Uneven Spoke Tension

If you notice that some spokes are tighter than others, it’s likely due to improper spoke tensioning. Always use a tension meter to ensure uniform tension across all spokes. This ensures the wheel is structurally sound and performs optimally.

Wobbly Wheel After Replacing Spokes

A common issue after replacing spokes is a wheel that wobbles. This is usually due to uneven spoke tension or improper truing. Use the truing stand to adjust the spokes and carefully check for any further issues. If necessary, go over each spoke again to fine-tune the adjustments.

Difficulty in Removing Spokes

In some cases, the spoke nipples can become stuck or difficult to loosen. If this occurs, try applying a small amount of penetrating oil to loosen any rust or corrosion. Allow it to sit for a few minutes before attempting to remove the nipples again. Make sure to clean the threads afterward.

Customization and Optimization for Better Performance

Spoke Lacing Patterns

The DT Swiss EX 1700 SPLINE [paid link] wheels feature a specific spoke lacing pattern. While it’s essential to replace spokes in the exact pattern for structural integrity, there are slight variations in spoke lacing that could optimize performance depending on your riding style and conditions. For example, you can explore radial lacing in certain areas for better aerodynamics or a more robust spoke pattern for additional strength.

Choosing the Right Spokes

When replacing spokes, always ensure that you’re using DT Swiss EX 1700-compatible spokes. Using spokes from other brands or models could compromise the integrity of your wheel. DT Swiss spokes are specifically designed for the EX 1700 SPLINE, providing the best balance between strength, weight, and ride quality.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The EX 1700 SPLINE wheels are designed to be compatible with a wide range of road bike drivetrain components, but it’s crucial to consider compatibility before replacing or upgrading any parts.

  1. Ensure the spokes you use match the original specifications.
  2. When upgrading your wheelset or drivetrain, ensure that the hub and cassette are also compatible with the EX 1700 wheels.
  3. If you plan on using a different tire or wheel size, check the compatibility with your current EX 1700 SPLINE wheels to avoid issues with rim width or spoke tension.

By maintaining your EX 1700 SPLINE wheels and regularly checking spoke integrity, you can ensure that your bike continues to perform at its best. Whether you’re replacing a single broken spoke or performing a full wheel rebuild, following these detailed steps will help you keep your wheels in top shape for years to come.