How to Install, Adjust, and Maintain the WH-RX650-TL Wheelset

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The Shimano WH-RX650-TL [paid link] wheelset is a tubeless-ready gravel wheel designed for endurance riders who demand durability, performance, and reliability. Whether you’re upgrading your current wheels or installing them for the first time, proper setup is crucial for maximizing speed, handling, and longevity.

This guide provides a detailed step-by-step approach to installing, adjusting, and maintaining your WH-RX650-TL [paid link] wheelset, ensuring optimal performance on both road and gravel terrain.

Tools Required

  • Cassette lockring tool [paid link] (for installing the cassette)
  • Torque wrench [paid link] (for tightening thru-axles and rotors to manufacturer specifications)
  • Tubeless tire levers (if setting up tubeless)
  • Tubeless sealant (for tubeless setup)
  • Pump or compressor (for tire inflation)
  • Disc brake rotor tool (for centerlock rotors)
  • Spoke tension meter (for spoke tension adjustments)

WH-RX650-TL Wheelset Installation Guide

1. Preparing the Wheelset for Installation

Before installing the WH-RX650-TL [paid link], inspect the wheels for any shipping damage, loose spokes, or misalignments. Ensure the hubs rotate freely and that the rims are true.

  • If running tubeless, ensure the rim tape is properly installed and covers all spoke holes.
  • If using inner tubes, verify that the rim tape is smooth and free from wrinkles.

2. Installing the Cassette

  • Position the freehub body facing upwards.
  • Slide the cassette cogs onto the freehub, ensuring they align with the splines.
  • Use a cassette lockring tool [paid link] to tighten the lockring to the manufacturer’s recommended torque (typically 40Nm).

3. Installing the Disc Brake Rotors

  • If using centerlock rotors, slide them onto the hub and secure with the lockring.
  • Tighten the lockring to the specified torque (40Nm for Shimano rotors).
  • If using 6-bolt rotors, attach each bolt in a star pattern and tighten to 6Nm.

4. Mounting Tires and Tubeless Setup

  • If using inner tubes, insert the tube inside the tire, ensuring it sits evenly within the rim.
  • If going tubeless, install the tubeless valve and secure it.
  • Pour 30–60ml of tubeless sealant into the tire before fully seating the bead.
  • Inflate the tire rapidly using a compressor or high-volume pump to ensure it seats properly.

5. Installing the Wheelset on the Bike

  • Insert the front and rear wheels into the dropouts, aligning the disc rotors between the brake pads.
  • Secure the thru-axles and tighten them to 12–15Nm using a torque wrench [paid link].
  • Spin the wheels to check for any brake rotor rubbing or misalignment.

Adjusting the WH-RX650-TL Wheelset

1. Checking Hub Bearing Adjustment

  • The WH-RX650-TL features a cup-and-cone bearing system that may require fine-tuning.
  • If the hubs feel too tight or too loose, adjust the bearing preload using the cone wrench [paid link].
  • Ensure the hub rotates smoothly without excessive play.

2. Aligning Disc Brake Rotors

  • If the rotors rub against the brake pads, loosen the caliper bolts, squeeze the brake lever, and re-tighten.
  • If the rotor is slightly warped, gently bend it back using a rotor truing tool.

3. Spoke Tension Adjustments

  • Use a spoke tension meter to check the uniformity of spoke tension.
  • If the wheel is slightly out of true, make 1/8-turn adjustments to the affected spokes.
  • Avoid over-tightening, as it can cause uneven stress distribution.

Maintaining the WH-RX650-TL Wheelset

1. Cleaning and Lubrication

  • Clean the rims, hubs, and spokes with a mild degreaser after muddy rides.
  • Avoid using high-pressure water near the hub bearings.
  • Lubricate the freehub body every 4,000–5,000 km to prevent premature wear.

2. Checking Spoke Tension and Wheel Trueness

  • Inspect the wheels for lateral or radial runout every few months.
  • Address any spoke tension imbalances to maintain wheel integrity.

3. Inspecting Bearings for Wear

  • Spin the wheels and listen for grinding noises or resistance.
  • If the bearings feel rough, remove and clean them, then repack with Shimano-approved grease.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

1. Loose or Wobbly Rear Wheel

  • Ensure the thru-axle is fully tightened.
  • Check for bearing play in the rear hub and adjust as needed.

2. Poor Tubeless Tire Sealing

  • Verify that the rim tape is intact and not leaking air.
  • Increase inflation pressure to help seat the tire bead properly.

3. Noisy or Loose Cassette

  • Remove the cassette and re-tighten the lockring to 40Nm.
  • Apply a small amount of grease on the freehub splines to minimize creaking.

FAQs

1. What is the correct tire pressure for the WH-RX650-TL wheelset?

For gravel riding, use 30–50 PSI depending on terrain. For road use, aim for 50–70 PSI.

2. Can I use the WH-RX650-TL with tubes instead of tubeless?

Yes, the WH-RX650-TL supports both tubeless and standard inner tubes.

3. How often should I check spoke tension?

Check every 1,000 km or if you notice the wheel losing true.

4. Can I use these wheels with a non-Shimano drivetrain?

Yes, but you may need a compatible freehub body for SRAM or Campagnolo cassettes.

5. How do I fix a clicking noise from the rear wheel?

Check if the cassette lockring is tight and lubricate the freehub mechanism.

Conclusion

Proper installation, adjustment, and maintenance of the Shimano WH-RX650-TL wheelset will ensure long-term reliability and performance. Regular inspections, cleaning, and tuning will keep your wheels rolling smoothly on all terrains.