How to True a Bicycle Tire

Even the most well-maintained bicycles occasionally need attention. When a wheel goes out of true, it puts stress on itself and the pleasure of riding the bicycle is affected. A slight wobble may be the first sign that the bike wheel needs to be trued. There's no need to invest in expensive professional repairs. Far from being complicated, this job can be done at home with a special wrench and some patience.

Things You'll Need

  • Multiple-sized spoke wrench
  • Felt tip pen
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Instructions

    • 1

      Turn the bike upside down on a firm, even surface and check for any loose spokes by gently squeezing together two neighboring spokes. Proceed around the wheel until all the spokes are checked. If any loose spokes are found, mark them with the felt tip pen.

    • 2

      Spin the wheel and slowly apply the brake until it starts to hit the wheel. If one side of the brake hits the wheel first, mark that area of the rim with the felt tip pen.

    • 3

      Check the spoke nipple(s) at the felt tip marked area of the rim with the multiple wrench until the proper size is found. Gently turn the spoke nipple(s) no more than one-quarter turn counter-clockwise, then spin the wheel and gently apply the brake again. Repeat marking and tightening spokes if necessary.

    • 4

      Tighten gently any loose spokes that had been marked earlier before again spinning the wheel and checking the brake. When the brake hits both sides of the rim at the same time, the wheel is true.