Spoke length help for wheel builds

[ishaw]

I'm looking to build a set of wheels. 27.5 around some wtb i30 rims and hope pro2 Evo hubs for s non boost frame and forks.

I've done some initial research and the suggested spoke lengths are below, I am hoping someone in the know can confirm or deny this is correct. Also looking for recommendations on decent spokes.

Front
Left. 274.9
Right: 276.5

Rear
Left: 276.2
Right: 275.2


If all goes well, I'll build another set, same rims (no eyelets though) and some nuke proof hubs, though the spike calc didn't list the Hibs so I'm a bit stuffed on figuring out the spoke lengths easily.

 

[Frankenorange]

DT Swiss calculator is good. If your hubs and rims aren't in the database just fire up a vernier and enter your own numbers

https://spokes-calculator.dtswiss.com/en/calculator

I would say you can't go at all wrong with CX Ray spokes. Round or aero.

 

[ishaw]

Thanks. Not up to speed with spokes and usage, looking to build a burly set of wheels for a longer travel full susser. It may not see the abuse intended but looking to build with strength in mind.

 

[klunkrider]

The only times I’ve ended up with the wrong size spokes is when I’ve trusted databases. I’d strongly recommend measuring your hubs and rims yourself. It means you have to wait until you have them in hand to order spokes but it’s worth doing. IMO.

 

[bikeworkshop]

If you're building 3 cross with the same number of spokes, flange diameter makes only a small difference to length, so if the NP hubs are similar to the hope ones (say 8mm difference) then the spoke length will be the same.
Rim difference affects spoke length mm for mm tho

 

[Frankenorange]

The only times I’ve ended up with the wrong size spokes is when I’ve trusted databases. I’d strongly recommend measuring your hubs and rims yourself. It means you have to wait until you have them in hand to order spokes but it’s worth doing. IMO.

+1

Always measure and keep the numbers in or on something. All you need is a decent ruler/tape to measure inside the rim, a spoke with a nipple to complete the ERD measurement, and a vernier caliper to measure hubs. None are expensive tools.

 

[bikeworkshop]

In fact a tape measure is enough for the hubs too, as accuracy isn't as vital as at the rim on a tangential build.
Understanding where you're measuring is important, and whether the flange offset is from the axle locknut end or a nominal centre point.

 

[pigman]

If you're building 3 cross with the same number of spokes, flange diameter makes only a small difference to length, so if the NP hubs are similar to the hope ones (say 8mm difference) then the spoke length will be the same.
Rim difference affects spoke length mm for mm tho

I'd go 4cross front and rear to be bombproof

 

[bikeworkshop]

4x only suits certain flange sizes and spoke counts, and you need to check the spoke holes in the rim will take that angle of nipple.
Most modern rims don't like it, and plenty of old ones too.

Some nipples have a more spherical shoulder to help with an extreme angle like sapim polyax.

I don't see 3x wheels breaking for any reason other than a crash though, so 4x is unusual these days.

Old times people had 3x 32h front 4x 40h rear, and guess what?
Same spokes all round!

The wider offset for 7 speed and beyond put paid to that, but there are benefits for strength, when components were generally weaker.