I have a set of Chrono 20 tubular wheels (28) laced 2 across with Sapim X Ray spokes. The noise is driving me nuts. I have had them retensioned with no effect, oiled the crosses and still the spokes pop. They are new wheels having been built last summer. I am wondering about the rigidity of the rim since the noises happen only when sitting (I am 150#) and pedaling (I am a wuss). They are really light rims (340 grams), but I have to do something that makes sense. Thanx

do the nipples need lubed?

I am wondering about the rigidity of the rim since the noises happen only when sitting (I am 150#) and pedaling (I am a wuss).

The wheels (and spokes) under go load cycling for every revolution (each part of the wheel experiences a load cycle as it passes into and out of the Load Affected Zone) at the bottom of the wheel), regardless of whether you are seated or standing, pedaling or not pedaling. If the noise happens only when seated and pedaling, a more likely source of the noise is the saddle. Saddle rails can creak where they are attached to the saddle shell, and seatpost cradles and clamps can creak when the saddle is rocked under pedaling motions. If the noise goes away as soon as you stand up or stop pedaling, I'd check there first.

but I switched wheelsets and no noise. I used to have an Arione saddle which drove me nuts and I have put oil where the spokes cross. It helps but not for long. The wheels are new having been build last summer and just broken out for the summer again. It is frustrating. I spoke to the builder and an returrning them for a looksee. It is a light rim (340grams) but I only weigh 150 and I am an old man. The hubs are Tune so it is a nice set at 1265 grams. I would hate to 86 it.

The Roval Wheels on my Specialized Roubaix make a hollow humming sound which drives me crazy . Not sure if that describes your noise. I talked to their tech guy and he says the stiffness of the wheels probably causes it. Guess I'll have to live with it. My old Mavic Open Pros on my old bike were silent. More money- more noise...somehow that does not make sense to me...

Try a little CRC/Lubricant spray wher ethe spokes meet the hib... if the nois is intermitien only when you pedal, this is most likely where it will be