Brass nipples vs aluminum on wheel builds - I switched and won't go back

I used aluminum nipples for years on my customer builds because they're lighter and look cleaner. But after snapping 3 nipples on a single wheelset last summer in Phoenix, I had to rethink things. The heat and dry air made those aluminum ones brittle and they kept cracking during tensioning. I switched to brass nipples on my last 5 builds and haven't had a single failure. They're heavier sure but the extra durability is worth it when you're building for desert riders. Has anyone else had aluminum nipples fail on them in hot climates?

3 comments

3 Comments

grays1315d agoTop Commenter

Man, that Phoenix heat is brutal on aluminum. Glad brass is working out for you.

laura_schmidt8215d ago

Funny how nature always reminds us shortcuts cost more in the long run...

joel_clark3710d ago

Shortcuts always look good until they bite you.