Extend Your EX 1700 SPLINE Wheels’ Lifespan with DIY Maintenance

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Maintaining your EX 1700 SPLINE [paid link] wheels from DT Swiss is essential for maximizing their performance and longevity. Proper care will ensure smooth rides, prevent premature wear, and protect your investment. This guide offers step-by-step instructions for installation, adjustment, and maintenance, as well as troubleshooting and customization tips to get the most out of your wheels.

Tools Required

  • 15mm wrench
  • 5mm and 6mm Allen wrenches [paid link]
  • Torque wrench [paid link]
  • Grease (preferably bike-specific)
  • Chain whip
  • Cassette tool
  • Tire levers
  • Rim tape
  • Bike stand [paid link]
  • Lubricant (for the freehub)
  • Brake rotor tool (if applicable)
  • Truing stand (optional for precision wheel maintenance)

Installation of the EX 1700 SPLINE Wheels

Installing the EX 1700 SPLINE [paid link] wheels properly ensures they perform at their best right from the start. The process is straightforward but requires some attention to detail.

Step 1: Prepare the Hub and Wheel

Before installing the wheels on your bike, ensure the hub body is clean and lubricated. Apply a thin layer of grease to the axle to prevent rust and improve rotation. This will also make future maintenance easier.

Step 2: Mount the Front Wheel

  1. Place the front wheel into the fork dropouts.
  2. Tighten the quick-release lever or thru-axle, ensuring the wheel is secure. Use a torque wrench [paid link] to tighten according to the manufacturer’s specifications (usually around 15Nm for most setups).
  3. Check that the wheel is aligned correctly in the dropouts.

Step 3: Mount the Rear Wheel

  1. If the wheel uses a quick-release skewer or thru-axle, install it by sliding the axle through the wheel hub and into the rear dropouts.
  2. Tighten the skewer or thru-axle, ensuring the wheel is correctly centered in the frame.
  3. Install the cassette using a cassette tool, ensuring that each cog is properly aligned. Tighten it to the correct torque specification (usually around 40Nm).

Step 4: Brake Rotor Installation

If the EX 1700 SPLINE comes with a disc brake system, mount the brake rotor to the hub using the appropriate rotor tool. Tighten the rotor bolts evenly and securely.

Step 5: Tire and Tubeless Setup (If Applicable)

  1. Install the tire onto the rim using tire levers.
  2. If setting up tubeless tires, apply sealant as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
  3. Inflate the tire to the recommended pressure and check for leaks.

Adjustment and Maintenance

Regular maintenance is crucial for ensuring your EX 1700 SPLINE wheels remain in peak [paid link] condition. Here are the key areas to focus on:

1. Truing the Wheels

Over time, your wheels may become slightly misaligned, resulting in a wobbly ride. Truing the wheels ensures they run straight and true.

  • Install the wheel into a truing stand.
  • Use a spoke wrench to adjust the tension of the spokes, tightening or loosening them as necessary to bring the wheel back to its true shape.
  • If you’re not familiar with wheel truing, it may be best to take the wheel to a professional to avoid damaging the spokes or rim.

2. Freehub Maintenance

The freehub on the EX 1700 SPLINE wheels can wear over time, causing a loud or sluggish engagement. Periodic lubrication will keep the freehub functioning smoothly.

  • Remove the wheel and cassette.
  • Clean the freehub body, removing any old grease or dirt.
  • Apply fresh lubricant to the freehub pawls and internal mechanism, ensuring a smooth, efficient engagement.

3. Bearing Maintenance

The hub bearings in your EX 1700 SPLINE wheels will experience wear with regular use. Keeping them clean and properly lubricated can extend their lifespan.

  • Remove the end caps and inspect the bearings for signs of wear or corrosion.
  • If the bearings feel rough or gritty, they should be replaced.
  • Lubricate the bearings with a high-quality bike grease before reassembling the wheel.

4. Tire Pressure Check

Maintaining the proper tire pressure is crucial for both performance and safety. Check the tire pressure regularly and ensure it aligns with the manufacturer’s recommended range. Under or over-inflated tires can lead to poor traction, punctures, and unnecessary wear on the wheel.

5. Brake Pad Alignment (For Disc Brake Users)

For riders using disc brakes with the EX 1700 SPLINE wheels, ensuring proper brake pad alignment is essential for optimal stopping power.

  • Check the rotor’s alignment with the brake pads.
  • If necessary, adjust the brake calipers so the pads make even contact with the rotor.
  • Lubricate the brake pad contact points lightly to reduce wear and ensure smooth braking.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

While the EX 1700 SPLINE wheels are built to last, they may encounter a few common issues during their lifespan. Here are the most frequent problems and how to address them:

1. Wheel Wobble

A wobbling wheel is often a sign that it is out of true or that there is uneven spoke tension. Check the wheel for any obvious damage and correct spoke tension using a spoke wrench.

2. Noisy Freehub

If you notice a loud, annoying noise coming from the freehub, it may be due to inadequate lubrication or debris inside the mechanism. Clean the freehub and apply fresh lubricant to ensure quiet and smooth operation.

3. Loose Axle

A loose axle could result in a poor connection between the wheel and the frame, causing wobbling or unstable handling. Always check the tightness of the axle or quick-release skewer and tighten it to the recommended torque.

4. Poor Brake Performance

If your disc brakes aren’t functioning optimally, inspect the brake rotors for warping or damage. Also, check the brake pads for wear. If the rotors are worn or damaged, they should be replaced. Similarly, replace worn brake pads for better braking performance.

Customization and Optimization

To get the best performance from your EX 1700 SPLINE wheels, some riders may choose to customize their setup for specific riding conditions or preferences. Consider these optimizations for your riding style:

1. Tubeless Setup for Mountain and Endurance Riders

For riders focused on durability and lower rolling resistance, converting to tubeless tires can significantly reduce punctures and improve ride quality. The EX 1700 SPLINE wheels are compatible with tubeless setups, offering an excellent performance boost in off-road and gravel conditions.

2. Cassette Options

Upgrading the cassette to a wider-range setup can provide better gearing options for different terrains. If you frequently ride on hilly or mountainous routes, consider swapping to a 12-speed or wide-range cassette for improved climbing performance.

3. Upgraded Brake Rotors

For riders using disc brakes, switching to larger or more durable rotors can provide better stopping power. Larger rotors can handle more heat and are particularly useful for aggressive riding styles.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The EX 1700 SPLINE wheels are compatible with a wide range of drivetrain components, including both Shimano and SRAM drivetrains. They use a standard freehub body and are designed to work with 9, 10, and 11-speed cassettes. When upgrading, ensure that the cassette is properly fitted to the freehub and that the wheel’s spacing is compatible with your frame.

Additionally, make sure your brake rotor mount matches the wheel’s rotor interface, either 6-bolt or centerlock, to ensure proper installation and safe operation.

Conclusion

The EX 1700 SPLINE wheels from DT Swiss are designed to offer long-lasting performance and durability. By following the steps in this guide for installation, adjustment, maintenance, and troubleshooting, you can keep your wheels in top condition for years of reliable riding. Regular maintenance and smart customization will further optimize the performance, ensuring you get the most from your investment.