In a message dated 7/16/02 9:11:20 PM, mark@bulgier.net writes:
<< Several people posted to the effect that wheels with twisted spokes are
stronger and/or stiffer. Just so readers won't be left with the impression
that this is universally accepted, I'd like to point out that at least some
experts feel that is utterly untrue - that it can't increase the strength or
stiffness at all.
I believe the main effect, pretty much the only effect it has, is to ensure
that one spoke breaking will effectively take out two spokes and make the
wheel unrideable - where a similar untwisted wheel would have been rideable
with a spoke broken. (On the rear wheel, twisting spokes makes the wheel
considerably more flexible in the "windup" direction, but wind-up is quite
unimportant anyway, so this isn't a serious problem)
The claims are especially unrealistic with respect to stiffness, because
even if the spoking pattern could double the stiffness (an absurd suggestion
no one is claiming), no one would notice. That's because all wheels are,
for all practical purposes, infinitely stiff vertically already. Any
vertical give they have is masked by the give in the tires, which is
probably a hundred times greater. Vertical stiffness of wheels can be
measured in the lab, but the differences are beyond the range of human
perception. By the way, tied-and-soldered was not found to have any effect
on stiffness, in the two studies I saw using precision machinist's measuring
devices. Anecdotal reports of "harshness" are easily explained by the power
of suggestion and other psychological factors.
Sorry if this takes any of the romance out of wheels for anyone.
Classic content: tied and soldered, if done well, is extremely cool whether
it makes the wheel any faster or not. It's got mojo that speaks to my
romantic side.
Mark Bulgier
Seattle, Wa
USA >>
Besides, aren't these "Twisted Spoke" wheels really hideous looking????? "Dali Wheels"??
Chuck Brooks
Malta, NY