Note: Berd is a registered trademark of Berd LLC, Minnesota. Spoke length calculations for Berd spokes were provided and revised exclusively by Berd LLC.
World's lightest spokes
No matter your level of experience in wheel building, you’ve likely noticed the shoelace-like flexible spokes, especially in sub-kilo premium builds showcased on social media. Made from bio-based ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE), or simply 'advanced polymer', these innovative spokes are setting new standards in ultra-lightweight technology.
Although I had no previous experience with Berd, as a weight-weenie enthusiast largely influenced by fascinating Instagram wheel builds, the idea of a collaborative project was certainly on my mind. What better way to bring this vision to life than by integrating the Berd calculator into SpokeCalc? To my knowledge, this had never been done before. Fortunately, the initial response was extremely positive, as the team at Berd LLC recognized SpokeCalc's capacity for such an integration. Game on!
Integration of the Berd spoke calculator
As stated in disclaimer inside the spoke calculator, Berd spoke lengths are actually different than metal spoke lengths, therefore more caution is advised when dealing with spoke calculations as mistakes might turn out very costly and also time consuming. Other than that, all spoke length calculations were provided and revised exclusively by Berd LLC, Minnesota. Furthermore, for additional information regarding Berd spoke calculations, further support or product related data, turn directly to Berd Spokes website.
To enhance the user experience (UX) and reduce any confusion, my job was to create a seamless integration by designing engaging, visual elements as well as help tips. In my experience, such tips not only make navigation intuitive but also serve to educate app users effectively.
Note: Berd Spokes checkbox in the Lacing tab of the spoke calculator must be enabled to get correct spoke lengths.
One very important thing to note here is the additional information included in the disclaimer. This disclaimer outlines key handling considerations unique to Berd spokes, giving users clear guidance for achieving the best results using their spokes.
Finalizing integration
To make the wheel builder’s workflow as smooth as possible, I also added Berd’s PolyLight Spoke inside the Component database for app users to copy it to their components list. In that way, they can later import it inside the spoke calculator.
Since most Berd wheel projects are done using specific hubs, prior preparations to the calculator integration included adding an option to save Hook Flange type hubs inside the App SpokeCalc.
These hubs feature hooks on the hub shell for securing Berd spokes without the use of the rod used in traditional j-bend and straight pull hubs. The result is a durable connection with a clean look.
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Final thoughts
Having added ultra-innovative Berd spokes to the app, I must admit the project represents a big stepping stone for the SpokeCalc site and the trust put in me by industry trend makers. With this integration, first accessible to app users, it is only a question of time before the free version of SpokeCalc gets it, too!
Enjoy wheel building!
About author
Aljaž Trenta
Author and founder"As a cycling enthusiast, bike mechanic and self-taught web designer, combining several of my passions and skills to build SpokeCalc was a great fun for me."