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Spoke nipple sizes


snowey's picture

By snowey - Posted on 07 October 2011

NB: Originally posted elsewhere on the Global Riders Network and appears via syndication.

Hi all

I am wanting to get a new spoke wrench for adjusting the spokes on my mtb

Does anyone know what size the average nipple size is, and what tool should i get to fit with the nipple?

Any suggestions would be helpful

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Flynny's picture

depends what spokes you are running

3.3mm
3.45mm
and 3.96mm

are the three most common sizes and most brand will to a multi wrench that has slots for all 3 + a 3.2mm.

Mavic wheels use there own system
Pimp and some shimano wheel do an over size nipple.

snowey's picture

i am running Sapim Race 14/15G butted stainless spokes at the moment

delicious's picture

As an alternative to a multi size spoke key simply go and buy a black and a red spoke key. These two are the most common sizes of any wheel most folk are ever likely to own.
Happily, the colour coded keys seem to be consistent in the major brands; Pedros, Park, Ice Tools etc.
Easier to use than the multi and unless you spend eight hours a day building wheels they will outlive your grandma.
Most shops will have them on hand. Go forth...

Flynny's picture

"black and a red spoke key"

As in the park tools ones? Umm, green is the most common, then red.

snowey's picture

ok cheers everyone

Macr's picture

I concur, with Flynny. I don't think I have ever used my Red spoke key. And now I say that, I just checked my tool box and I no longer have a red key. I wonder where it went to?

daveh's picture

To throw a spanner in the works, I just checked the (Park Tools) one that I have and it is blue! Mavic rims with DT Swiss spokes.

Macr's picture

Ah, I see where my wheels differ. I have DT nipples on Mavic rims!
WTF! Park Tools, please explain!

daveh's picture

I took delivery of a brand new new bike on Sunday and to ensure that I can work on it when I need to ordered some more stuff. I have no idea about the nipple size so at about $7 a pop I have just purchased a green, red and black Park Tools spoke wrenches. We have other bikes kicking around our place so I am sure they will come in hand some time!

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