BMX Race Spokes

Q: What are BMX Race Spokes and what is their job?

Spokes are the connection between the Hub and the Rim. In BMX Racing, they must transfer the explosive power of your start (drive force) and absorb the impacts of jumps without breaking. High-end race spokes are designed to save rotating mass while maintaining high tension.

Q: How is a BMX Spoke constructed?

Head (J-Bend) The curved end that hooks into the hub flange. Standard in BMX is the 90° J-Bend. Shaft The middle section. Its diameter determines the weight and elasticity of the spoke. Thread The end where the nipple is screwed on. Usually rolled (not cut) for higher stability.

Q: What types of spokes are there?

The difference lies in the thickness of the shaft: Straight Gauge (2.0mm): The spoke has the same thickness throughout. Very stiff, robust, and affordable, but slightly heavier. Ideal for training wheels. Double Butted (2.0-1.8-2.0mm): Thinner in the middle. These spokes are lighter and slightly more elastic, which makes the wheel more durable (less prone to snapping due to fatigue). The standard for Pro racing. Aero / Bladed: Flattened in the middle to cut through the wind. Offers marginal aerodynamic gains and looks very technical.

Q: Which material is best?

Stainless Steel The absolute standard. Rust-free, strong, and reliable (e.g., Sapim Leader/Race). Titanium Ultra-light and expensive. Saves weight but is more flexible ("spongy") than steel. Only for very light riders or specific weight-weenie builds.

Q: What about Spoke Nipples?

Spokes need nipples to hold the rim. You have two choices: Brass Nipples: Heavier but extremely durable. They don't seize up easily and are robust against corrosion. Aluminum Nipples: Much lighter and available in many anodized colors. The choice for most racers to save rotating weight. Requires careful assembly to avoid rounding them off.

BMX Race Spokes FAQ

What are BMX Race Spokes and what is their job?

Spokes are the connection between the Hub and the Rim. In BMX Racing, they must transfer the explosive power of your start (drive force) and absorb the impacts of jumps without breaking. High-end race spokes are designed to save rotating mass while maintaining high tension.

How is a BMX Spoke constructed?

Head (J-Bend): The curved end that hooks into the hub flange. Standard in BMX is the 90° J-Bend.
Shaft: The middle section. Its diameter determines the weight and elasticity of the spoke.
Thread: The end where the nipple is screwed on. Usually rolled (not cut) for higher stability.

What types of spokes are there?

The difference lies in the thickness of the shaft:

Straight Gauge (2.0mm): The spoke has the same thickness throughout. Very stiff, robust, and affordable, but slightly heavier. Ideal for training wheels.
Double Butted (2.0-1.8-2.0mm): Thinner in the middle. These spokes are lighter and slightly more elastic, which makes the wheel more durable (less prone to snapping due to fatigue). The standard for Pro racing.
Aero / Bladed: Flattened in the middle to cut through the wind. Offers marginal aerodynamic gains and looks very technical.

Which material is best?

Stainless Steel: The absolute standard. Rust-free, strong, and reliable (e.g., Sapim Leader/Race).
Titanium: Ultra-light and expensive. Saves weight but is more flexible ("spongy") than steel. Only for very light riders or specific weight-weenie builds.

What about Spoke Nipples?

Spokes need nipples to hold the rim. You have two choices:

Brass Nipples: Heavier but extremely durable. They don't seize up easily and are robust against corrosion.
Aluminum Nipples: Much lighter and available in many anodized colors. The choice for most racers to save rotating weight. Requires careful assembly to avoid rounding them off.

How do I calculate the correct spoke length?

This is the most difficult part of wheel building. You cannot guess the length! You need:

ERD (Effective Rim Diameter): Check your rim's spec sheet.
Hub Dimensions: Flange diameter and offset.
Lacing Pattern: usually 3-cross (Pro/Expert) or radial (Mini front).

Tip: Use an online Spoke Calculator. If you are unsure, ask us before ordering!

What do the specifications mean?

Specification	Explanation	Examples/Available
Gauge / Diameter	Thickness of the wire.	14G (2.0mm) is Standard.
Length	Measured from the inside of the elbow to the thread end.	180mm to 196mm (typical 20")
Butting	Profile of the spoke.	Straight, Double Butted (2.0-1.8-2.0)