The most famous spoke tension meter on the market is the Park Tool TM-1. The secret of its popularity is its low price. Unfortunately, the quality of this tool is disappointing. It is very inaccurate – several consecutive measurements of the tension of a single spoke can differ by even 10-20%. Without prior calibration, its readings cannot be considered absolute values, as they can differ from the actual values by up to 60%. The instructions only state that it must be sent back to the company’s headquarters for proper calibration, which can cost more than the device itself.
Incomparably more precise is the Sapim spoke tension meter, produced by the German company P&K Lie. It has an analog clock face indicator, whose mechanism operates on ruby bearings, the same as in watches. Its readings are accurate enough to allow the spoke tension to be equalized to within a few percent. In addition, the manufacturer provides the option of self-calibration by providing the necessary tools for this purpose. Other spoke tension meters worth considering in our opinion are: DT Swiss Tensio, Centrimaster, Wheelfanatyk, and Hozan.
Of course, it is better to use any spoke tension meter than none, but in the era of increasingly lightweight rims, which have very precisely defined upper limits of spoke tension, using an uncalibrated meter can damage the rim. Therefore, if you want to build lightweight wheels (especially if the number of spokes in one wheel is less than 32), it is better to entrust this task to a workshop that has professional tools and knows how to use them.
However, if you are building and truing wheels on 32 or 36 straight gauge spokes or need a tool for home use, the Park Tool TM-1 meter may be a sufficient solution. Its weakest point is the cracking springs – if it has cracked in yours, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. We can replace it and properly calibrate your meter.
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