Rusty spokes - what would you do?

[dirttorpedo]

So I picked up an early 80's ATB in decent condition, but over the years the chrome came off the spokes and they are a bit rusty. I don't think it affects the functionality of the wheels - particularly because I'm more likely to just ride it on the road and easy trails. So what do I do? Just clean them up and enjoy them or do I let my OCD take over and have the wheels rebuilt with new spokes? If the majority say clean are there any recommendations for a good non-toxic rust remover?

 

[Tc]

Cut a slit in a cork and rub up and down vigiorously with applications of autosol.

 

[xerxes]

Re:

Replace them with some nice, quality stainless spokes, something like Sapim or DT Swiss and they'll stay rust free and look good for ever more.

 

[artfulflounder]

Cut a slit in a cork and rub up and down vigiorously with applications of autosol.

How brilliantly simple

 

[jimo746]

Re:

For cleaning, I used wire wool to remove the worst of the rust, then polish with Autosol.

It does take rather a long time, but the results aren't bad at all.

If the wheelset is worth the expense then a rebuild with new spokes would be a more thorough method.

 

[02gf74]

Depends on the wheels. If they are good quality with both hubs and rim in good con, then s. steel spokes.

Else clean off rust, rust treatment and paint.

I susprct wheels aint gonna be thag great if they didnt have s steel spokes fitted.
A set of decent wheels may be another option.

 

[xxnick1975]

Cut a slit in a cork and rub up and down vigiorously with applications of autosol.

Thought I was on a different forum when I read that...

 

[Ollie]

If they are a good quality wheelset get them replaced and trued up.

If not, give them a good clean over if they are structurally fine.

 

[raidan73]

Cut a slit in a cork and rub up and down vigiorously with applications of autosol.

Thought I was on a different forum when I read that...

Does this actually work? I've got the same task ahead of me and they're a decent pair of wheels I but can't really justify replacing the spokes. Mine aren't so much rusted, more just dull and tarnished.

 

[Tc]

Always worked on my bmx's