Is this bent rim fixable?

[Mintman]

The rim is not toasted. This happened to both my previous American Classics AM28, as well as  both my Crest Wheels about 2 weeks ago. Unfortunately, this happens when you have no option but to ride through rock gardens at a pace with low pressure tubeless tyres.

 

The wheels can be straightened. Take it into your LBS. Just ensure the tension on the spokes are good afterwards. 

 

I took it into Rev cycles in CPT and they said the damage was too severe to fix. I'm sure most lbs are reluctant to take on that sort of work due to the unpredictability of the outcome. But nevertheless, I just decided to play it safe. 

[porqui]

I had the same thing. A ding in my rear Rapide rim last year. I gently wrapped a wrench in a towel and bent it out very slowly and carefully. Which left a smaller ding. Has been fine since including on some hectic Drakensberg trails.

 

The key is the rim tape- to seal it properly. I suggest as others said, to take it to your LBS or one of the awesome wheel builders on here. My LBS built up the ding on the inside of the rim a bit, to get the rim tape to seal.

 

My wheel runs true and holds sealant. I did insert a CSIXX Foamo into this rear wheel to help prevent this again when running low pressures on tubeless. You may want to look at an insert, depending on the riding you do. 

 

It's not about that it can be used again

 

It's about safety.

[Robbie Stewart]

I was descending a very a rocky section very slowly, went over the bars, and the bike must have just flipped over and hit the rocks on that spot. A mate talked me into doing this route on my cross country bike. Never again!

 

You have a very descriptive way of explaining "the Scorpion"...

 

[Mintman]

You have a very descriptive way of explaining "the Scorpion"...

 

o1aznxn.jpg

 

Haha less flashy than that. But it's a work in progress...

[Robbie Stewart]

Haha less flashy than that. But it's a work in progress...

 

...but I would advise you to rather skip this particular badge of (dis)honour. I have 2, and both left permanent scars...

[ct_rider]

I took it into Rev cycles in CPT and they said the damage was too severe to fix. I'm sure most lbs are reluctant to take on that sort of work due to the unpredictability of the outcome. But nevertheless, I just decided to play it safe. 

 

I took my American Classic wheels Bridge Cycles, which they straightened. Then I took my crest wheels to Olympic Cycles, which they also managed to straighten my wheels. Maybe it is on a case by case basis, who knows. It is worth a try. 

 

Take nothing away from LBS when they tell you it can't be fixed. However, even if your LBS refuses to do it. There is no harm in trying to straighten it yourself and checking the tension on your spokes as other hubbers have done. It does not mean it is impossible to straighten.

 

Just remember, if you straighten your wheels without a LBS selling you new rims, it will save you the bucks. In the case of my crest wheels being straightened. I saved R3200 for a new set of rims. 

 

I would say exhaust all options you may have. If you are going to feel unsafe, you do have the option of purchasing new rims or building up another set  

[ct_rider]

Pictures..................

 

I wish I had taken pictures before and after.... 

[David Marshall]

I would just get the same rim from Rapide and replace it.  Loosen the spokes, tape the new rim to the old with the valve holes in line and transfer the spokes over one at a time.  Best to use new nipples.  Then it should be easy - and relatively cheap - for a builder to tension and dish it for you.  If you get a different rim you will most likely be in for a set of spokes as well - costing as much as the rim.

[brad890]

I would just get the same rim from Rapide and replace it.  Loosen the spokes, tape the new rim to the old with the valve holes in line and transfer the spokes over one at a time.  Best to use new nipples.  Then it should be easy - and relatively cheap - for a builder to tension and dish it for you.  If you get a different rim you will most likely be in for a set of spokes as well - costing as much as the rim.

 

I second this, building the wheel across isn't to difficult. Lots of video's and tutorials on the web.

 

I'd leave the dishing and truing to someone who knows what they are doing.

 

I'm sure the guys at rapide would be able to sort you out with a new rim on its own.

[Ampandy]

The ally will never be structurally sound again once bent back to shape or close thereto. Rather replace the rim with a new one.

[Mintman]

I would just get the same rim from Rapide and replace it.  Loosen the spokes, tape the new rim to the old with the valve holes in line and transfer the spokes over one at a time.  Best to use new nipples.  Then it should be easy - and relatively cheap - for a builder to tension and dish it for you.  If you get a different rim you will most likely be in for a set of spokes as well - costing as much as the rim.

 

Ya I managed to order the exact same rime from Rapide. I also got some more nipples and spokes just in case.

[Matchstix]

The repair is dependant on the rim alloy. If its a soft alloy like wtb KOm for example it wil be easy to bend out but need to take care.

If it is something like stans rims that is much harder and more brittle it will crach when you try and bend out.

In my experience shifting spanner, and screw driver and plastic hammer. Dont want to change or damage the bead lip.