Wheel Flex

Fuzzytrooper

Is it normal to be able to move a road wheel from side to side? This happened with my last set and a new pair that I put on last week. Basically if I grab a wheel I can push it a couple of mm. The wheel isn't wobbling or rattling and returns to its original position when i let go. QRs are nice and tight.

I've done some digging and I "think" it might be just the wheel flexing.

Alek

This is normal, some wheels are stiffer, some less.

The stiffest I tried were Reynolds Attack (afair), all that I have - including homebuilt, factory XT wheelset and semi aero 3T hoops - are laterally flexy to some extent.

This does not translate to any issues in real life, they corner very predictably and don't wobble on the road.

ted1

On an older wheel it can be a sign of bearings needing replacement.

Alek

On an older wheel it can be a sign of bearings needing replacement.

This is when the wheel feels loose laterally. If it flexes under finger force, it happens between spokes and the rim.

fat bloke

Is that the wheel flexing or the fork?

Alek

I've checked now and the 3T Pro Disc wheels flex the same amount on the front and back. Not a fork issue then.

Fuzzytrooper

It's both front and rear. Definitely doesnt feel loose but just easy to push.

Alek

I'd say compare with another wheelset of the same make if you can - if its noticeably flexier, spokes may need to be tightened.