RE: [CR]DB spokes

(Example: Framebuilding:Brazing Technique)

From: <travis.harry@gmail.com>
Date: Sun, 04 Nov 2007 10:05:27 -0500
To: <classicrendezvous@bikelist.org>
In-Reply-To: <E1IoewR-0001r0-S8@elasmtp-scoter.atl.sa.earthlink.net>
Subject: RE: [CR]DB spokes

A reputable technical gurus (or keeper of technical bicycle folklore) says double butted (db) spokes build better wheels. More shock is absorbed in more elastic central portion of the spoke, less at the holes in the hubs and rims and at the bends. Not just a lighter (and more elegantly lighter looking), but stronger and more resilient wheel.

So, whether for CR interests, or for touring, the bike looks better when still and performs better under adversity. Less weight and wind resistance are secondary.

And if you have 36+ spokes of tandem or touring wheels, who wants the bike to look like the wire-wheeled stubbies on an Austin Healey 3000?

Harry Travis
Washington, DC USA