Spoke Beads

Bring back that 1980's nostalgia with 3D printed spoke beads!

Pedal slow for awesome sounds. Designed for 2.0 mm spokes.

Recommended Print Settings

I would start with the Normal Tightness (1.7 tightness factor) files. Count the number of spokes your bicycle has, and increase or decrease the number of instances as appropriate in the 3MF file.

• 0.2mm layer height
• 0.2mm first layer height
• 6 perimeters
• Perimeter generator: Arachne
• Auto generated supports: Everywhere
• Support style: Snug

You can easily clean up any stringing by dabbing with masking tape and/or by folding the tape in half lengthwise with the sticky side out, and running it through the groove in the bead.

If you want to do a quick test fit before deciding which tightness you need, load up one of the 3MF files, and decrease the number of instances to just one.

When I tried the Extreme Tightness (2.0 tightness factor) bead, it was extremely hard to install, and I was not able to remove it by hand. For this tightness, you should probably use a tool to spread the bead open so you don't damage your spokes.

Optional Print Settings

• For tri-color beads, add a color change at 5.80mm, and 8.40mm

Removing the Supports

I found the quickest way to remove the snug supports is to grasp it with the slot facing upwards with a pair of diagonal cutters, and then rock the bead side to side with your thumb.

Then you can clean up any stringing that is in the slot by using masking tape.

If you print this, please share your make photos, I'd love to see them!