What’s the difference between butted and straight gauge spokes?

Q: What’s the difference between butted and straight gauge spokes?

The difference comes down to thickness and performance characteristics . Straight Gauge Spokes Same thickness throughout (e.g., 14g) Strong and durable Typically more affordable Ideal for heavy-duty or budget builds Butted Spokes Thinner in the middle, thicker at the ends Lighter weight Better at absorbing shock and fatigue More resistant to breaking over time Which should you choose? Butted spokes → Best for most builds (stronger, lighter, longer-lasting) Straight gauge → Good for heavy loads, e-bikes, or cost-sensitive builds

The difference comes down to thickness and performance characteristics.

Straight Gauge Spokes

Same thickness throughout (e.g., 14g)
Strong and durable
Typically more affordable
Ideal for heavy-duty or budget builds

Butted Spokes

Thinner in the middle, thicker at the ends
Lighter weight
Better at absorbing shock and fatigue
More resistant to breaking over time

Which should you choose?

Butted spokes → Best for most builds (stronger, lighter, longer-lasting)
Straight gauge → Good for heavy loads, e-bikes, or cost-sensitive builds