Abbey Bike Tools

Harbor Dishing Gauge

A dishing gauge is a specialized tool that helps you check the alignment of your bike's wheel rim in relation to the hub. Proper alignment is essential for a smooth ride and effective braking. If your wheels are not properly dished, it can lead to uneven wear and tear, affecting your bike's performance and safety.

The plunger is a key component of the dishing gauge that makes contact with the hub of the wheel. When pressed down, it measures the distance from the rim to the hub, allowing you to determine if the wheel is centered. This measurement is crucial for ensuring that your bike rides straight and that the brakes function properly.

Stand off feet are small extensions on the dishing gauge that allow it to rest on the bike frame or wheel without touching the tire. This feature is particularly useful because it lets you check the wheel's dish while the tire is still mounted, making the maintenance process quicker and more convenient.

A spring-loaded mechanism is a design feature that uses a spring to automatically return the plunger to its original position after being pressed. This makes the dishing gauge easy to use, allowing for quick adjustments and measurements during bike maintenance, which is especially helpful for beginners.

The hub is the central part of the wheel that connects to the bike frame and allows the wheel to rotate. It houses the axle and is where the spokes attach. Understanding the hub's function is crucial for anyone performing bike maintenance, as it plays a vital role in wheel alignment and overall bike performance.

It's a good practice to check the dish of your bike wheels regularly, especially if you notice any handling issues, unusual tire wear, or after any significant impacts (like hitting a pothole). Regular checks can help maintain optimal performance and extend the life of your wheels.