Spokey
It's small, red, and found in every professional workshop. The "Spokey" is arguably the most legendary spoke
wrench in cycling. Although the name is as well-known as "Kleenex" for tissues, the manufacturer behind it is
often a mystery. Here, we answer the most important questions about the most-used tool in wheel building.
Spokey stuff
Spokey FAQ
Who or what is Spokey?
Spokey® is not the company name, but the product name for one of the most famous and trusted spoke wrenches in the world. Almost every professional mechanic and wheel builder has one in their toolbox.
Who manufactures the "Spokey" spoke wrench?
The official manufacturer of the "Spokey" is the iconic German company Rixen & Kaul, which most cyclists also know for their world-famous "Klickfix" handlebar bag and basket mounting systems.
Why does everyone call it a "Spokey"?
Because the "Spokey" from Rixen & Kaul (usually the classic red one for 3.25mm nipples) is so extremely popular, reliable, and widespread, the product name "Spokey" has become a generic term (like "Kleenex" for tissues) for this type of high-quality spoke wrench. When someone asks for "a Spokey," they almost always mean the original from Rixen & Kaul.
What makes the Spokey so special?
Unlike many cheap metal spoke wrenches that often only grip the nipple on two flats, the Spokey's design wraps around the nipple on three or four sides. This provides much better torque transfer and prevents the dreaded "rounding off" of sensitive brass or alloy nipples, especially when they are seized or when building with high spoke tensions.