How many spokes are necessary?

[big ben]

So there are two versions of the Transition Revolution wheelset, 32h/32mm width or 36h/36mm width. I was about to purchase some 32mm ones but questioned whether 32h is strong enough for DH terrain (though I'm a lightweight at 145 lb so probably not very hard on gear). I would prefer the lighter 32's but would get the 36's if there is a major strength advantage. Seeing as I know nothing about the subject I turn to the NSMB experts. Which should I buy? Thanks in advance for help.

-Ben

[TheGiggler]

32 spokes is more than enough for me at 175 lbs ...

i know lots who ride w/ 36 but i dont see the need unless you're a big guy.

[Timmigrant]

32 is more than ample and I'm 200lbs.

[big ben]

Well that answers my question, thanks guys. :)

[tFly]

The other thing to consider with those wheels in particular is the fact that the 36 wheels are also 36mm wide, as opposed to 32mm. The wider rim will give a better profile for a DH tire..

[big ben]

The other thing to consider with those wheels in particular is the fact that the 36 wheels are also 36mm wide, as opposed to 32mm. The wider rim will give a better profile for a DH tire..

I'll be mounting 2.2" Michelin DH Comp 16's...I'd presume 32mm would be a more appropriate match?

[heckler]

also - 14 gauge spokes. 32 of them. Don't use skinny little spokes.

[TheGiggler]

also - 14 gauge spokes. 32 of them. Don't use skinny little spokes.

that was a given as we're talking DH/FR wheels ;)

[heckler]

that was a given as we're talking DH/FR wheels ;)

I've got skinny little spokes on the D321/King wheels that I bought used. :( But they were a great deal for the hubs.

[james]

for a smoother rider I would totally go with a butted spoke. butted spokes can absorb an impact much better then a straight gauge spoke, they are not as strong laterally though.

Plus they are lighter :)

[TheGiggler]

for a smoother rider I would totally go with a butted spoke. butted spokes can absorb an impact much better then a straight gauge spoke, they are not as strong laterally though.

Plus they are lighter :)


sounds like a waste of money to me ... i rarely break spokes ...

butted are lots more $$

[kperras]

Rotational weight. Nuff said.

[J-Kwon]

sounds like a waste of money to me ... i rarely break spokes ...

butted are lots more $$

my single guage fork seem to bend quite often on multiple wheels.

[biggles604]

The other problem with 36H wheels is a more limited rim selection, and most of the rims are special orders.

[Bryce]

I probably wouldn't pay extra for butted spokes, but I agree that the reduced rotational mass is worth the extra likelihood of breaking a few here and there. The DT Alpine 3's seem to hold up - I think they're only broken from direct side impacts (ie crash, spoke lands sideways on a rock)

32h straight guage vs 36h triple butted?