Results are presented of a study on the armature of the hind and fore tibiae in 39 species and 4 additional subspecies, out of 54 (formally recognised) species and 9 additional subspecies, belonging to Rhacocleis and Pterolepis. The armature of the hind tibia, traditionally used to separate Pterolepis and Rhacocleis, varies within taxa from very slight in most taxa to extensive in a few. The armature of the upper inner margin of the fore tibia proved a more reliable character than the traditional hind tibial armature to separate Pterolepis and Rhacocleis, indicating that the synonymy of Rhacocleis with Pterolepis proposed in Heller et al. (1998), should be re-evaluated. Observations suggest a possible re-arrangement of species described under Pterolepis and Rhacocleis, but no nomenclatural changes are proposed. It is argued that nomenclatural changes, if any, should only be taken after a much needed review of the generic definitions in the Platycleidini (s.l.). An updated checklist of Pterolepis and Rhacocleis taxa is included. Pterolepis ramburi Serville 1838 is proposed as a species incertae sedis.