Wheel Spoke Key (For Road Bike - Giant PA2 wheelset)

[DSK]

I would like to have a go at truing my wheels.

Can anyone advise which key would git the Giant PA2 wheel spokes or, if there is a key with adjustable sizes available?

 

[confusedcyclist]

Something like this should cover all entualities on standard equipment, https://www.chainreactioncycles.com/bbb-turner-spoke-key-twister-btl15/rp-prod3976

Of course, if you're riding something exotic... it might not do.

 

[robgul]

There used to be an adjustable spoke key available from Park Tool - a bit like a very small adjustable spanner - but now discontinued AFAIK.

A good LBS or possibly Halfords will have a multi-sized spoke key tool that'll do the job - although it's easier with the correct size Park Tool spoke key.

Rob

 

[confusedcyclist]

I built 3 pairs of wheels with the BBB one above, perfectly useable, but treated myself to the park tool dedicated sizes over time to bump my wiggle orders over the £9 threshold or whatever it was back then when placing small orders.

 

[DSK]

Perfect! Once again the CC forum members knowledge is exceptional. Shame the BBB is out of stock, the Halfords one doesn't seem to have as many sizes but, Evans do one, so will pop into my local Evans to see if they have it in store.

 

[FrankCrank]

Have only used 2 types of spoke key, and this is my favourite:

View: https://www.amazon.co.uk/CYCLO-TL06343-Cyclo-Spoke-Adjuster/dp/B004NT78FY/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=cyclo+spoke+key&qid=1576543793&sr=8-1


The other type is the ubiquitous round one, which always felt sloppy and rounded the nipples if really seized on. The Cyclo one is more ergonomic, and just a better tool really. I usually build a couple of wheels a year, so might give the BBB one a try by way of comparison.

 

[Ajax Bay]

This is the one I have used (for trueing and building) - better than all those that went before - I think as a result of a recommendation in this forum a few years ago. The OP can measure their nipples and get the right one. If measuring is too difficult, their LBS is the best port of call. This key locks down on all 4 faces of the nipple and is easy on the fingers (compare this with the ones recommended above).
Rixen Kaul Spokey [Red 3.25mm] Spoke Nipple Key
This thread is worth a read: https://www.cyclechat.net/threads/spokey.137207/
Image and quote stolen from there:

. . . basically there are three nipple sizes for road bikes
3.2 Black (specialist nipples like DT etc)
3.3 Green (European Spokes generally)
3.45 Red (Japanese Spokes)