What lacing means
Lacing is the way spokes run from the hub flanges to the rim. The pattern is named by how many other spokes each spoke crosses on its way, so a “three-cross” wheel has spokes that each cross three others. The choice affects how the wheel handles pedaling force, braking force, and sideways loads. It is a major decision when you build a wheel.
For orientation, spokes attach to the hub’s flanges, which are described in our bike hub diagram and parts guide.
Radial (zero-cross)
In a radial wheel the spokes run straight from the hub to the rim without crossing. It is simple and can be light, and it is sometimes used on front wheels with rim brakes. The weakness is that the spokes do not transmit torque well. Radial lacing is generally not suitable for hubs that transmit drive or disc braking torque, and many hub makers specifically say not to use it with their disc hubs or on a rear drive side. Always check the hub and rim manufacturers’ guidance.
One-cross
Each spoke crosses one other. It can be used on smaller wheels or hubs with large flanges, where the spoke angle suits it. It is less common on typical road wheels.
Two-cross
Each spoke crosses two others. It is a common choice for lower spoke counts (for example 24 to 28 spokes), and often used on wheels designed for disc brakes. It balances torque transfer with lighter weight.
Three-cross
Each spoke crosses three others. This is the classic pattern for 32- and 36-spoke wheels. It handles torque well and is widely used for touring, commuting and general-purpose wheels. With fewer spokes or small flanges, the spoke angles can become awkward, so builders pick patterns to suit the hub.
Two-to-one and other special patterns
Some wheels are laced with different patterns on each side. A common version is “two-to-one,” where the drive side has twice as many spokes as the non-drive side. This approach aims to even out tension across the two sides of a rear wheel, and is used with specific hub and rim designs. Such builds are specialized, so spoke counts and compatibility need careful checking. Other builds mix radial on one side with crossed spokes on the other, which suits some wheel designs but not all.
Comparison table
| Pattern | Crosses | Typical use | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Radial | 0 | Some front rim-brake wheels | Poor at transmitting torque |
| One-cross | 1 | Small wheels, large flanges | Less common |
| Two-cross | 2 | Lower spoke count, disc wheels | Common modern choice |
| Three-cross | 3 | 32/36-spoke wheels, touring | Classic, durable |
Choosing by brake type, spoke count and use
- Brake type: Disc brakes put torque through the spokes, so crossed patterns are generally used. Rim brakes put less torque on the hub.
- Spoke count: Higher counts (32 to 36) suit three-cross. Lower counts often suit two-cross.
- Use: Heavy loads, touring and rough use tend to favor more crosses and higher spoke counts. Light road use may allow fewer spokes.
- Hub and rim rules: Many manufacturers specify permitted patterns and spoke counts. Following them is usually the safest route.
Straight-pull vs J-bend
J-bend spokes have a bend at the hub end and go through the flange hole from the inside or outside. Straight-pull spokes have no bend and sit in a slot or specific hole in the hub. Straight-pull hubs are often built to suit a specific pattern. Always check the hub’s design before choosing a lacing pattern.
Valve position and tidy details
Many builders arrange the wheel so the valve hole sits between a pair of spokes, which makes pump access easier (see how to inflate a bike tire properly). Others orient the hub label so it can be read from a certain side. These do not affect strength, but they are common finishing touches.
Next step
Once you know the lacing, the next job is spoke length and the build itself. See how to build a road bike wheel, and for terms like rim, nipple and flange, see the anatomy of a bike wheel.