How to True Bike Rims

An average bicycle wheel consists of a hub and rim joined by a series of spokes. A wheel is considered laterally "true" when the rim is centered perfectly around the hub axle. Spoke tension determines whether the rim is true or not. A loose spoke can cause the rim to pull in the direction of a tighter spoke. A shop mechanic has a truing stand for the express purpose of straightening the wheel. In a pinch, however, you can true the wheel laterally with the wheel on the bike by using the brake pads as a reference for determining deviations in the rim.

Things You'll Need

  • Truing wrench
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Instructions

    • 1

      Flip the bicycle over, balancing it on its saddle and handlebar. Straighten the handlebar, if necessary, so that the bicycle is balanced.

    • 2

      Turn the wheel slowly. Observe where the rim passes the brake pads. When true, the rim will pass the brake pads evenly, without deviation. Stop the wheel at any section that appears uneven.

    • 3

      Observe the deviation. Whichever direction the rim deviates, the spoke opposite the deviation may be loose. Pluck each of the spokes opposite the deviation to determine precisely which spoke is loose. Lacking tension, the spoke will offer a noticeably lower tone.

    • 4

      Fit a truing wrench around the base of the loose spoke, at the end closest to the rim.

    • 5

      Turn the wrench counterclockwise to add tension to the spoke. Give the wrench no more than a quarter turn before checking the effect of the adjustment. Continue to adjust, as needed, until the deviation in the rim has disappeared and the section of rim is even.

    • 6

      Rotate the wheel further to check for any more deviations. True the rim where needed.