In a message dated 10/20/04 8:22:45 AM, classicrendezvous-request@bikelist.org writes:
<< Fair. I have only built a couple of sets of spokes with them and it was a
number of years ago. The single butted spokes with the heavier guage at the
hub are a good idea I suppose. The threading is not as good as DT or top
Japanese spokes. So they bind a little more than necessary when you are
building the wheel. No breakages but I don't know if I ride any one set of
wheels enough to evaluate the endurance of spokes anymore.
Joe Bender-Zanoni
Great Notch, NJ >>
Hello Duane,
My experience differs from Joe a good bit. Our shop experience seems to conclude they build and last as well or better than DT and that is saying something. We have be using them for about 4 years and I'm not sure we have ever had a spoke breakage on anyone's wheel.
On the threading thing; never, I repeat never a problem threading, again equal to or superior to DT.
Two things on the threading. One: Sapim makes a special nipple that binds to keep spokes from rattling loose in use. Maybe those were supplied by accident.
Two: It is possible in some circumstances especially between brands to thread a 15 g spoke nipple onto a 14 gauge spoke; serious binding results but it can be done. They look alike to me.
Your results may vary,
Gilbert Anderson
North Road Bicycle Company
519 W. North St.
Raleigh, NC 27603
USA
Toll Free Ph: 800-321-5511
Local Ph: 919-828-8999
E-mail: cyclestore@aol.com