Nip-uls
Noun, Slang
The nipples of the wheel that the spokes attach to.
Example usage: 'Make sure your nipples are tight to avoid wobbling.'
Most used in: Countries where cycling is popular.
Most used by: Mountain bikers and road cyclists.
Popularity: 8/10
Comedy Value: 4/10
Also see: Spoke Nipples, Valve Nipples, Rim Nipples, Hub Nipples,
What are Nipples in Cycling?
Nipples are an integral part of modern bicycle wheels. They are small metal cylinders that connect the spoke to the rim of the wheel. The spoke passes through the nipple, and the nipple is then used to tension the spoke, which keeps the wheel true and round.
Nipples are usually made of brass, aluminum, or steel and come in various sizes and thread pitches. The size and thread pitch of the nipple must match the spoke and rim for the wheel to be properly assembled.
The average bicycle wheel will have 32 spokes, each with a nipple. On higher-end racing wheels, the number of spokes and nipples can vary depending on the manufacturer and the desired performance of the wheel.
In recent years, the use of nipple-less wheels has become increasingly popular. These wheels use a special type of spoke that is bonded directly to the rim, eliminating the need for nipples. This reduces the weight of the wheel and makes it easier to assemble.
Nipples have been used in bicycle wheels for many years, and their importance in keeping wheels true and round cannot be overstated. Whether you ride a mountain bike, road bike, or touring bike, the nipples on your wheels are essential for a safe and enjoyable ride.
in the blog.The Origin of 'Nipples' in Cycling
The term 'nipples' in the context of cycling has been around since the late 19th century. It was first used to describe the small metal rings that hold the spokes of a wheel onto the hub. These metal rings were sometimes referred to as nipples because they resembled a human nipple.
The term was popularized by cyclists at the time, and was used to refer to the spokes of a wheel. By the early 20th century, it was a commonly used term in the cycling community and is still used today. It is used to refer to both the metal rings that hold the spokes in place and the spokes themselves.
The first recorded use of the term 'nipples' in the context of cycling was in an article written by an American cyclist in 1894. Since then, the term has been adopted by cyclists around the world, and is now a common term used in the cycling community.
