How to choose spokes for your MTB wheels?

Two situations may arise: either one of the spokes on your MTB wheel has broken, or you want to build a wheel. In the first case, there is no choice — you will need to replace it with a spoke identical to the broken one. In the second case, here is what will help you choose.

The standards

Length (contact one of our advisers for help on this subject)

Types of spokes

Aside from the very specific spokes particular to each wheel model, there are 3 main categories depending on the characteristics sought.

Classic spokes A are cylindrical with a constant diameter along their entire length; while not the lightest, their advantage is that they are particularly robust.

Double Butted B spokes are also cylindrical, with a diameter identical to classic spokes at the ends but smaller in the middle section. This allows good strength to be maintained whilst saving weight.

Bladed spokes C have the same design as Double Butted spokes, but the thinner section is flat on these versions, which allows for significant weight savings and makes the wheel more aerodynamic whilst retaining good strength, especially against lateral forces (elements coming across the wheel).

Which spokes for my riding style?

Touring

For a leisure MTB ride, classic spokes will give you maximum reliability.

Cross-Country

For Cross-Country rides, Double Butted and even bladed spokes will allow you to save as much weight as possible on your wheels whilst retaining all the reliability needed to finish your race without incident, especially with bladed spokes.

All-Mountain / Enduro

For All-Mountain or Enduro riding, you can either opt for classic spokes if you want reliability, or bladed spokes for maximum performance and responsiveness.