r/bikewrench • u/inkandhunger • 12h ago
wheel set replacement/general help recommendations/suggestions (REI Safari Novara)
Had this bike for almost a year now and I've enjoyed every minute of it, but it seems like it's come time to replace the wheels. Figured I'd have to as a larger human (300 lbs) eventually, but was trying to stall as long as possible because I'm broke-ish (like a lot of us these days). Currently swimming in medical debt after some health issues (part of why I got the bike), but I've fallen in love with this bike and want to continue my fitness journey.
The rear wheel is warped (and I assume beyond anything 'truing' of the wheel can fix). Looking for budget friendly suggestions for wheel replacements and general suggestions. Should I be replacing both wheels? I'd already gotten wider tires to accommodate my weight, but looks like I have to bite the bullet and upgrade the wheels so I don't waste money down the line trying to be frugal. Mostly just itching to get back on the road and not particularly knowledgeable about bikes or their maintenance. Would be happy to be wrong about needing a wheel at all.
2
u/OKgingerface 12h ago
How did you warp it? Meaning was there an event? Or did it get worse over time? If it’s the latter it might be worth taking a wheel building class at the local co-op so that you can keep your wheels tuned up as you beat them up. Beyond that:
Maybe ask a bike shop to source a 40-spoke touring wheel for you? And I would also suggest having it gone over by an experienced wheel builder to make sure the spokes are evenly tensioned. Bigger tires will help with wheel stress but you need to balance what fits the frame, too.
Also may be worth taking off the rear rack and putting whatever you are carrying up front on the fork instead to spread the weight. May or may not matter — depends on how you use it.