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Wheel Building 1

This is a practical all-day workshop where you learn to lace, build and true wire-spoked bicycle wheels.

Although most people who attend are keen cyclists, the day is aimed at those with little or no experience of wheel building. Where necessary, the underlying theory behind the practice is also introduced, based on the standard textbook, The Bicycle Wheel by Jobst Brandt.

I concentrate on teaching you how to build strong, durable rear wheels in the standard ‘cross-3’ pattern. This instils sound wheel building principles and provides a solid foundation of knowledge and skills for anyone wishing to build wheels with alternative patterns in future. Radial, half-radial and other exotic lacing patterns are not explicitly covered.

Places are limited to eight students per workshop to ensure that everyone gets the assistance they need in a small intimate group. Apart from being prepared to get your hands dirty, you should anticipate having a satisfying and enjoyable day, by the end of which you will have sufficient knowledge and skill to build reliable wheels.

Topics covered

choosing and measuring components
lacing
tensioning
correcting spoke line
lateral- and radial truing
dishing
stress relieving
dismantling and rebuilding

Learning objectives

By the end of the workshop you will be able to:

Calculate spoke lengths from hub and rim measurements.
Select appropriate components for building wheels.
Lace and true wheels.
Correct spoke line and avoid spoke wind up.
Tension spokes evenly and sufficiently for maximum strength.
Stress-relieve wheels to ensure durability.
Replace broken spokes and/or retrue existing wheels.

“I really enjoyed the day. The atmosphere was great, we got on with the practical elements, backed up with the little theory necessary. I felt relaxed, but challenged. The course is perfect for anyone who's enthusiastic about bicycles, cycling or doing their own bike maintenance.”

Robert, Caversham

“The day was well structured with lots to learn. A good pace to the day with clear explanations. I found the theory very interesting and the practical sessions were challenging but well supported. I am looking forward to practicing the skills I have learnt in my own workshop. Thanks!”

Steven, Sudbury

“It really was a great day and we both enjoyed it immensely and surprised how much we got through and how capable we felt at the end. Hard to improve your approach and style.”

Sam, London