Why you should check spoke tension on classic motorcycles
Wire wheels are one of the defining features of many classic motorcycles, but they need occasional attention.
Over time, spokes can loosen, especially on motorcycles that have seen years of use, rough roads or long periods of storage. A wheel with uneven spoke tension may develop a wobble, run out of true or place extra stress on individual spokes.
Checking spoke tension doesn't require expensive equipment. Gently tapping each spoke can often reveal differences in tension, as loose spokes tend to produce a noticeably duller sound.
It's one of those simple inspections that is easy to overlook but can help keep a classic motorcycle riding and handling as it should.
Have you ever discovered a surprisingly loose spoke on a bike that looked perfectly fine from a distance?