How inadvisable would it be to relace 2x 24H front to radial?

[echappist]

I understand the concerns associated with existing gouges and having new spokes not aligning with existing gouges. Having said that, just how inadvisable is it to relace 2x 24H front to radial?

[DfCas]

Since it increases the chance of a flange failure i would never do that ,especially on the front.

[hypnos]

What are advantages of radial spokes?

[echappist]

aesthetics only; not too concerned about minuscule increase in spoke length

[rowebr]

Originally Posted by echappist

aesthetics only; not too concerned about minuscule increase in spoke length

Radial lacing will require shorter spokes than what you have for the 2x lacing.

Rim brake? If so How well used is the rim? If you’re set on rebuilding the wheel make sure that brake track has plenty of life left.

[echappist]

Yes, rim brake. At this point, considering a completely new rim and spokes.

[Peter P.]

Originally Posted by DfCas

Since it increases the chance of a flange failure i would never do that ,especially on the front.

THIS.

What happens is, when the hub is initially built, the spoke holes deform to support the spokes without sharp edges. This is by design.

Changing the existing spoke pattern affects the material leading to stress risers and cracked flanges.

I've seen it first hand.

[Gabe77]

Originally Posted by Peter P.

THIS.
I've seen it first hand.

The vast majority of riders today have never experienced wheel failure of any kind... That's because today's wheels are basically disposable like razors. They are also much better than they used to be so the basic entry level wheelset may be a bit heavy and non-aero but it works.

I've only ever had one spoke failure in my life and that was from a wheel at end of life bought second hand - brake tracks were concave. I rebuilt those hubs into serviceable commuter wheels - yes using same lacing as original.

[tellyho]

I think a failure is unlikely. I also think radial lacing is dumb so I'm never liable to experience it. If you don't care that much about the hubs, go for it.

[StressStrain]

Are 2x spokes long enough to relace as radial? I would expect they'd be 2-4mm longer as 2x and therefore not fit as radial.

[echappist]

Originally Posted by StressStrain

Are 2x spokes long enough to relace as radial? I would expect they'd be 2-4mm longer as 2x and therefore not fit as radial.

It would be for new rim and new spokes.

But since it sounds like a very bad idea, it's not something I'll explorer further.

[deluz]

There is nothing wrong at all with radial lacing, but probably would not do it on that hub.