Submitted by
Battsen
a Weekend Warrior
from Denmark Date Reviewed: November 18, 2009
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$14.00
Purchased At:
sage
Strengths:
Argumentation
Illustrations
images
good for both pros and beginners
Weaknesses:
None really
Bottom Line:
Mr. Musson has written an excellent book, all steps of wheel building is perfectly described for beginners but also usage of pro gear is described very well. The illustrations are another big plus.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dougmurray
a Cross Country Rider
from Missoula, MT, US Date Reviewed: November 7, 2009
Favorite Trail:
anything outdoors
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$12.00
Purchased At:
wheelpro.co.uk
Strengths:
Very clear, concise, and useful information. I recently switched computers and rather than hunting through files on the old, I was able to download a new copy of the updated version using the link in the email I received when I first purchased the book in Feb 08 (thanks to gmail's searchable archives). And I see from his website yet another improvement is coming soon, with online videos!
Weaknesses:
Not necessarily a weakness; it's worthwhile to print and have it spiral-bound. Double-sided, I think it was less than $5 at the university printshop.
Similar Products Used:
Sheldon Brown's website
Bottom Line:
will certainly improve your wheelbuilding skills. Indispensable resource.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Weekend Warrior
from West Moors, Dorset, England Date Reviewed: July 20, 2009
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$14.00
Purchased At:
online
Strengths:
Accurate, easily understood, well written, excellent diagrams!
Weaknesses:
Not a bound book.
Similar Products Used:
None (after reading this, not needed).
Bike Setup:
Two; hybrid, road.
Bottom Line:
Excellent, the only fault will be made by the reader (me on my first attempt, I didn't read it thoroughly). Follow Roger's advice and your first attempt will be faultless. Finally, if you don't understand somthing you have read. Somewhere else in the text will be an explination to help you. The best advice given in the book is TAKE YOUR TIME.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
elia
a Cross Country Rider
from sk Date Reviewed: June 30, 2009
Favorite Trail:
xc, am, fr, dh
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$15.00
Purchased At:
online
Strengths:
I m a wheelbuilder and spent a few years to produce the strongest MTB wheels. I luckily met the Roger's Book.
Rogger wheel building book is the best one among other books for me even though I read a number of books. his book is very much of practical use, for not only beginner but also even specialist. He can give you the best approach as for wheelbuilding, also kind & quick communication, I think His book never hide his skill and knowhow, his thorough knowledge.
Weaknesses:
None, not found yet.
Similar Products Used:
The Bicycle wheel,Barnett's Manual, The art of wheel building and some other books
Bike Setup:
all the mountain bike wheels
Bottom Line:
I strongly recommend Roger Musson Wheel Building book for novice and even expert like me. He wil give you his mystery straightforwardly & openly regarding how to build the best & strongest wheel. His book is great wheelbuilding guide book, to be sure!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
MK_
a Cross Country Rider
from Boulder, CO Date Reviewed: April 13, 2009
Favorite Trail:
phew, so many!
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$10.00
Purchased At:
Lulu.com
Strengths:
Great step by step instructions; theory; how tos for making your own wheel building tools; spoke length calculation formulas
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
a few
Bike Setup:
hub, rims and spokes
Bottom Line:
This is a top notch manual and reference. I bought the 3rd edition when Roger got back into wheelpro.co.uk back in 2005; I originally used his old website for a reference in some of my builds; when the book was published I immediately purchased the PDF and went to Kinkos to get it printed and bound. I've used the book a lot for a reference in my various builds and periodically, when I get rusty, I use it to remind myself the proper initial steps in lacing up the wheel to get the valve stem in the correct spot. I haven't made any tools Roger speaks about as I have various Park tools to do the job, nevertheless, if they work for the author they should work for you. Great book!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dennis Hoff
a Weekend Warrior
from Fargo, ND Date Reviewed: April 4, 2009
Favorite Trail:
On the road
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$13.00
Purchased At:
wheelpro
Strengths:
Very good introduction to wheel building. This should be the very first thing someone interested in wheel building or repair purchases, even before a spoke wrench.
Weaknesses:
none
Bottom Line:
Great value in teaching wheel building and repair.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Speshpaul
a Cross Country Rider
from UK Date Reviewed: March 22, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Climachx
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$8.00
Purchased At:
online download
Strengths:
Very clear, very detailed. The DIY wheel jig and tools are great, i brought the book and assembled the tools i need for less than £15. Many many wheels later i'm still using Rogers methods and tools. Recommended.
Weaknesses:
Not having a laptop i had to print the book off to have a workshop copy, hardly the end of the world;-)
If you want to build wheels this book will teach you how, and you have to spend a fortune by kit to get started.
Highly recommended.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Leo
a Racer
from England Date Reviewed: March 20, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Dry and dusty
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$15.00
Purchased At:
wheelpro website
Strengths:
All you need to know to build brilliant wheels with no prior wheel building knowledge, in an easy to read, clear and concise guide. Is the simplest and most logical step-by-step guide I have read, yet covers every building detail for both road and mountain bike wheel builds.
Weaknesses:
None - although I was slightly dissappointed at how easy it was to make 'perfect' wheels - no 'black art' as often stated in mags etc, just a few simple logical steps - was hoping for a bigger challenge !!
Was truly amazed that my first set of wheels were so easily built following this guide, are still well within stated tolerances after 300 miles, and are only 65g a pair heavier than my Ksyrium SLs (mavic open pro, record hubs, dt revolution spokes, velox tape) yet cost me half the price and ride every bit as well. I'm also sure they will be more reliable and will cost me £1 and 10 minutes if I bust a spoke, rather than mavics £145,and four weeks, to replace the spokes and rim in the eventuality of a snapped ksyrium spoke ( the rim needs replacing as on each of the three occasions this has happened I have been sprinting and the ksyrium rims go into complete collapse - you'll need a lift home also !).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
street_rider
a Cross Country Rider
from Lexington, MA, USA Date Reviewed: March 17, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Boston streets
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$17.00
Purchased At:
online
Strengths:
Clearest wheelbuilding book I've read, great hints for beginner and more advanced wheelbuilders as well. And Roger responds to e-mail questions - that's priceless!
Weaknesses:
None.
Similar Products Used:
Jobst Brandt and Gerd Schraner wheelbuilding books.
Bike Setup:
Bianchi Road bike, Gary Fisher hybrid
Bottom Line:
Roger takes you carefully through the wheelbuilding process - you can follow his instructions to the letter and come up with a decent wheel from the start. Keep on building and you see new things in the book all the time, and he'll clarify by e-mail if you need it - he's even most gracious about dumb mistakes!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
James
a Weekend Warrior
from Manchester Date Reviewed: March 13, 2009
Favorite Trail:
?
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
online
Strengths:
Sensibly written book which debunks myths and encourages good practice.
Weaknesses:
It doesn't help someone looking for more advanced knowledge about building on carbon rims, low spoke counts, carbon damage diagnosis, hub maintenance etc
Similar Products Used:
Gerd Schraner, Jobst Brandt etc
Bike Setup:
which bike??
Bottom Line:
Its an excellent low cost way of learning building for those with an interest, but given the retail cost of spokes/rims/hubs etc, I think that mostly it will appeal to those wanting to repair or respoke damaged wheels.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mendip Boy
a Cross Country Rider
from Bristol, England Date Reviewed: February 24, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Saddle Chest
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$5.00
Purchased At:
On-line
Strengths:
I started using this book in its 1997 edition. It gives Clear unambiguous descriptions that I have used them to build spindly light XC wheels and Heavy Duty hucking hoops all of which have stayed true.
The updated versions have improved the ease of use for a newcomer no end.
The Author knows his subject and by the end of it you start to feel you know something about it too.
Weaknesses:
None - I've not seen a better book on wheelbuilding
Similar Products Used:
Various internet resources
Bike Setup:
...with wheels most of the time...
Bottom Line:
No better resource for the budding wheelbuilder
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
P Thomas
a Weekend Warrior
from Liverpool, UK Date Reviewed: February 17, 2009
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
wheelpro website
Strengths:
low cost, new editions sent free of charge
Weaknesses:
would be nice to have a book but I suppose you only need to print the bits that you will use in workshop
Bottom Line:
Great practical easy to follow advice even for someone with little experience. I was also impressed that you are automatically sent new editions of the book, free of charge.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
phoeve
a Cross Country Rider
from Atlanta Date Reviewed: February 17, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Big Creek
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$12.00
Purchased At:
Online
Strengths:
Best wheel building resource I've seen.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
web sites, etc
Bike Setup:
Custom Ventana El Padrino. Wheels Hope Pro II hubs, Mavic Rims
Bottom Line:
This book is great!!! Don't build a wheel without it. I've build maybe a dozen wheel sets and learned a lot on my first of many reads. I love the plans for the the home built truing stand. Don't look anywhere else
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
kingair
a Weekend Warrior
from Ivins, UT, USA Date Reviewed: February 8, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Gooseberry Mesa
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$12.00
Purchased At:
http://www.wheelpro.
Strengths:
Straight forward, easy to understand, Easy to use the info in the book and turn it into real life wheel building success
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Various online instructions and videos found via google searches etc.
Bike Setup:
wheel set: dtswiss ex5.1d wheels, hadley rear hub, spec front hub, dtswiss double butted spokes built for an '09 spec enduro s works frame set.
Bottom Line:
Best money you will ever spend if you want to learn to build, repair, and or maintain your bike wheels.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Caburn
a Cross Country Rider
from Cheltenham, UK Date Reviewed: February 4, 2009
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Excellent book, clearly written by someone who's used their experience to get the best techniques. Also down-to-basics approach - no expensive kit needed. I particularly liked the design for the cardboard wheel dishing gauge - works a treat and costs nothing! Been making occasional wheels for years, but followed the book this time, and very happy with the result.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
Fixed wheel/geared wheel (convertable) touring bike
Bottom Line:
Money well spent to learn from somebody elses experience, but without the crap.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
bartali
a Weekend Warrior
from Brookfield, Il Date Reviewed: January 25, 2009
Favorite Trail:
United States
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$13.00
Purchased At:
roadbikerider
Strengths:
Roger's book is clearly written, the diagrams are helpful and in general the The book takes the mystery out of wheelbuilding and gives you the confidence that you can build or at least repair your own wheels. The section on making your own wheel jig is worth the price of the book.
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
Sheldon Brown's website
Bottom Line:
A straight forward informative book on wheel building.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
x-ray550
a Cross Country Rider
from Sweden Date Reviewed: December 15, 2008
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Purchased At:
Onilne
Strengths:
Clear, straight to the point, great diagrams.
Weaknesses:
Can't think of any.
Similar Products Used:
Just Sheldon Brown's excellent cycle site.
Bike Setup:
Kinesis Maxlight 2 frame,reba forks,handbuilt wheels/mavic 717, hope hubs, xtr drive chain, Racing Ralph tyres.
Bottom Line:
A great way to start to get into wheel building.If you've thought about it before but never dared to no is the time to change.Easy to follow text and diagrams with excellent tips on home made jigs/tools and writen in such a way for everyone to understand. I've built a few sets of wheels now and seem to get better each time I try. I'd seriously recommend this book to those who want to give wheel building a go.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rosie
a Cross Country Rider
from Somerville, MA USA Date Reviewed: December 14, 2008
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Purchased At:
Wheelpro.co.uk
Strengths:
Clear, concise, and accurate. This is required reading for any burgeoning wheelbuilder.
Bottom Line:
This is truly the most thoughtful and useful book on wheelbuilding around. Yes, people toss around "The Art of Wheelbuilding" and Jobst's book like they are biblical canon, but Roger Musson's book is much MUCH better. This book cuts away the nonsense and claptrap and will get you understanding AND building the best handbuilt wheels you can get if you devote some time to the practice.
This is a rare good value in today's world.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Lengai
a Cross Country Rider
from Copenhagen, Denmark Date Reviewed: December 13, 2008
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Very clear, I have only skim-read the latest version but built some very good wheels (IMO!) using the previous addition, this one looks to have some useful extra illustrations and explanations. It's detailed yet has a 'keep it simple' style that enables an enthusiastic amateur (me) to crack on with it.
Weaknesses:
None!
Similar Products Used:
Trial and error when building my first set of wheels.
Bike Setup:
1 x cross country fully rigid 29er MTB, 1 x fixed gear road.
Bottom Line:
Whetehr it is for general knowledge (ie you have no intention of actually building your own wheels) or for education, this is the best 'wheel builing book' I've seen. I built my first set on trial and error; they actually turned out OK - but this book simplifies the whole exercise. Wheel building turns out to be a surprisingly straightforward and intrinsically satisfying process.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
sheepskinstu
a Racer
from Warrington,UK Date Reviewed: December 5, 2008
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Bottom Line:
Roger's book has been a great asset to me. It leaves no stone unturned and explodes many myths that are perpetuated in wheelbuilding.
He also backs up his book with answers to any questions you may have and shows a genuine interest in the subject.
Highly recommended.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
fatrmanonabike
a Weekend Warrior
from Houston,Texas Date Reviewed: November 27, 2008
Favorite Trail:
I like asphalt
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$22.00
Purchased At:
online/downloaded
Strengths:
This book is what he (Musson) says it is and more. Clear concise and functional. I tore down my wheel to a hub and rim. Using this book, I laced 3X and trued my wheel. At 260# I put tough miles on any wheel and 2000+ miles later, still rolling well. I built his nipple wrench,but onwned a Minoura Workman truing stand. This book works.
Weaknesses:
Black and white lacing patterns can be tough to read. I did it you can too.
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
Guru flite frame,Sora shifters re-built stock wheels. It's a real mutt.
Bottom Line:
I was only rebuilding,NOT building from scratch. I only used a small portion of his book. I have unusual needs,being a Fatmanonabike. I need a heavy duty 700x25 wheel. I built it with a stock hub, Mavic CXP33 rim and Wheelsmith spokes. My LBS built this wheel incorrectly. The spokes were too long and the niples bottomed out before they could properly tension the spoke. I learned from the book that I was breaking spokes because they were under tensioned. I rebuilt my wheel with this book and it has 2000+ trouble free Fatmanonabike road miles on it. First go buy some bamboo skewers used for cooking. Then download this book to find out why you are glad that you have bamboo skewers. If you ever even thought you might like to build/rebuild a wheel get this book. If you want to better understand what a bike wheel does, get this book. If you want to confidently ride on wheels you built, get this book. I'd rather ride my bike than haul it back and forth to the LBS, which is why I got this book. I cannot recommend it highly enough.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mick
a Weekend Warrior
from UK Date Reviewed: November 16, 2008
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Wheelpro website
Strengths:
Everything - Ease of use as it's an e-book so no pages to get dirty when building a wheel. clear instruction. Occasional free updates
Weaknesses:
None that I've found
Bottom Line:
I had absolutely no experience of wheelbuilding but like the satisfaction of doing things myself. I built the jig described in the book and this allowed me to build my first wheel (a mavic open pro on Campagnolo rim (rear)). No problems. I have just built up a cheap rear MTB wheel, again with no problems.
If you fancy building a wheel then this is the book to get you there from start to finish.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
reueladhikari
a Cross Country Rider
from Melbourne, Australia Date Reviewed: November 9, 2008
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
http://www.wheelpro.
Strengths:
This book is really useful. I have built up regular 3X lacing pattern wheels following the instructions in this book as well as one with 2X pattern with a Rohloff hub. Highly recommended.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Lennard Zinn's book on bike maintenance with a chapter on wheelbuilding
Bike Setup:
Surly Cross Check with Rohloff hub
Bottom Line:
If you want to learn wheelbuilding overnight and you already have a truing stand & a tensiometer, this book will provide all the info.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
OldSandown
a Cross Country Rider
from Derry, NH USA Date Reviewed: November 5, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Carter Moriah Range (hiking)
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
On line
Strengths:
Straight to the point
Weaknesses:
Not aware of any
Bike Setup:
Mountain bike, touring road bike, hybrid and unicycle -- oh yeah, and a 1985 Kawasaki 454 LTD.
Bottom Line:
Although the book's focus is on bicycle wheels it contains everything you need to build and maintain professional quality wheels for everything from unicycles to motorcycles. You really don't need anything else.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a Racer
from Tucson, Arizona, USA Date Reviewed: October 29, 2008
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
online
Strengths:
Well defined and presented material that made the concept of building bicycle wheels easy to understand.
Bottom Line:
This is a great book that helped me understand the concept of wheel building. I now have bicycles wheels that have thousands of miles, on rough south west roads, that are as true as the day I put these on my bicycles. Thanks Roger!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
gmreymers
a Weekend Warrior
from Spokane, WA, USA Date Reviewed: October 21, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Centennial Trail
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$18.00
Purchased At:
Wheelpro Web Site
Strengths:
Very clear wheel lacing instructions. Excellent discussion on the importance of spoke tension. Very clear on how to build and keep the lateral, radial, and dish true while building. How to build the tools, esp. the nipple driver. Instructions on how to measure the effective wheel diameter and hubs, along with the charts to record measurements, are excellent. Instructions on how to calculate spoke length was a nice touch. Either calculate yourself, or go to his web site.
Weaknesses:
None as far as I am concerned.
Similar Products Used:
sheldonbrown.com/wheelbuild. The Art of Wheelbuilding, by Gerd Schraner. the Bicycle Wheel, 3rd ed. by Jobst Brandt.
Bike Setup:
Comfort, City or Urban. Sit upright. Mavic 622-19 wheels with 700X38C tires.
Bottom Line:
The absolute best book I have used to build a wheel. Built my third wheel (rear) using this book. Had no problem trying to decipher the instructions and diagrams. The wheel came out within the wheel tolerances given on page 63. The build took a while, but not an excessive amount of time. If you want to build your own wheels, this is the book to buy. You won't need any other.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
JDay
a Cross Country Rider
from Henderson, NV Date Reviewed: October 20, 2008
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Online
Strengths:
Theory behind wheel building as well as tool development and step by step directions.
Similar Products Used:
None
Bottom Line:
For an engineer, geek-type personality or just anyone who enjoys mechanical theories this is a must have guide to building wheels. The text is thorough and easy to follow for a beginner, however, it contains great details for even seasoned wheel builders. This is definitely worth the money and easy to obtain through the author's website.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dodge
a Racer
from Kingston upon Hull Date Reviewed: October 19, 2008
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Very clear logical presentation. Good photos and diagrams
Bottom Line:
After purchasing the book a while ago I have had great fun and success building bike whhels. To receive a free update after two years was a total suprise. A really excellent product for beginners and experts alike
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
imrandall
a Racer
from Toronto, ON, Canada Date Reviewed: October 17, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Albion
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$15.00
Purchased At:
www.wheelbuilding.co
Strengths:
Clearly written, well organized, lots detail if you want it, easy enough to use if you don't
Similar Products Used:
sheldon brown's site, Jobst Brandt
Bike Setup:
which one?
Bottom Line:
Get it if you need a comprehensive text to help you get into wheelbuilding
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
posthocfallacy
a Weekend Warrior
from USA Date Reviewed: October 15, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Colorado Trail
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Verbage. I have read several wheel building books and find them completely incomprehensible. They use words like "up" and "down", "left" and "right". That wouldn't be so bad if the wheel stayed in the same orientation as you built it, but it doesn't, it moves around. It only took a couple pages for me to figure out that it would do no good to continue reading because I didn't know where he was talking about. Musson's book finally put things in terms that I could understand and I built some wheels for my touring bike with 36 spokes and XT hubs that I have not had to adjust in the two years since I built them. I put them on the alignment stand to check them every three months for a year and decided that was a waste of time. I figured I'd watch them and adjust them when they need it. They have not needed it. I'll recommend this book to anyone.
Similar Products Used:
Brant's wheel building, Harris Cyclery wheel building
Bike Setup:
Gary Fisher HooKoo-e-Koo that I bought at a pawn shop 8 years ago and have replaced everything on it except the brake levers and the frame. I currently have XT front and rear with XTR shifters, XT hubs on wheels with Mavic XC317 36 spoke 3X lacing. FSA crank and XT bottom bracket. Avid shorty 6 brakes.
Bottom Line:
I recommend this book.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
T Barrett
a Weekend Warrior
from Australia Date Reviewed: October 15, 2008
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Clear diagrams and photos. Very thorough yet clear explanations. Low cost. Free update service. Suitable for novice through to pro.
Weaknesses:
None
Bottom Line:
A thoroughly recommended text suitable for all categories of wheel builders and anyone interested in wheel maintenence.
I bought this book because I teach students about building electric recumbent trikes. I needed to very quickly get up to speed on wheel building. I had never built a wheel before. I sat down and devoured the book ( it is very well written). I then confidently went out to the workshop and built my first wheel without any real hitches.
I love details and this book answered all of my questions.
Well done Roger.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
IanB
a Cross Country Rider
from Glasgow Date Reviewed: October 14, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Ae
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
Online
Strengths:
Indepth knowledge of wheel building covering all aspects from choice of rim to fashioning your own tools. New Cad drawings of the wheel rig a definate bonus.
Weaknesses:
None
Bike Setup:
Azonic Evolution
Bottom Line:
I bought the orignal wheel pro book before building my second hand built wheel, figuring that I could greatly improve on my first atempt. I've been riding the wheel I built for about 6000 miles now and have not had a single problem with the rim. Quite simply a comprehensive straight forward guide to building your own wheels. A must buy for any cyclist even if you just want to know how to true a wheel.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
chris88
a Downhiller
from Toronto, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: October 14, 2008
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$9.00
Purchased At:
Website
Strengths:
Great step by step detailed instructions. Great photos / CAD pictures to follow, anyone can build a wheel with this guide.
Weaknesses:
None that I can see
Bottom Line:
Fantastic guide to building wheels. I have personally built wheels by following this book that are far better built than those bought OE/OEM. Make sure you print it at a local print shop(cheap), so you can take it with you to races or wherever and you're good to go !
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
BVJ
a Cross Country Rider
from copenhagen, Denmark Date Reviewed: October 13, 2008
Favorite Trail:
le melezin near briancon or tour de furfande in Queras
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
web
Strengths:
very nice reading and very straight forward in his approach.... likes sentences like "the rim was straight at the beginning of the building process and should remain straight :-)
I also like all the home made tools.
I have build one rear wheel following the instructions and have been riding it for nearly a year without any straightening or other maintenance
Weaknesses:
none sofar
Would like to see some comments on tubeless wheels and how to build tubeless wheels my self
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
Rivette H6 with reba and SRAM + SC blur with another RS fork
Bottom Line:
Very good book and you feel very proud when you have build your own wheel.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
fasterthanferraci!
a Cross Country Rider
from Sandhurst, Kent. UK Date Reviewed: October 13, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Everywhere
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$18.00
Purchased At:
Online through Roger
Strengths:
Very easy to follow and assumes no previous experience. Good simple clear instructions with relevant diagrams. Must be good because I managed to build 'em first time out!
Weaknesses:
none as far as I was concerned. All good!
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
Trek Top Fuel, Xtr groupset, Bonty xxxlite finishing kit and Hope mono mini pros. Dt Swiss hubs,Bonty rims. Spangly new wheels built by me!
Bottom Line:
My first experience of wheel building was as a junior sprinter and after a complete failure, due to lack of knowledge, I decided to have another go and armed with Rogers Ebook I finally achieved the perfect build of my first pair of wheels! Hooray!!
Thanks Roger worth every penny and then some.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joel
a Racer
from chicago, il Date Reviewed: October 13, 2008
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Very well written book on wheel building. Worth the price.
Bottom Line:
If you want to build a wheel, this e-book will provide you with all the info you need.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jayray16
a Cross Country Rider
from Chicago, IL, USA Date Reviewed: October 13, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Old Mine Trails, Trumbull CT
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
Online
Strengths:
After purchasing new Hope Pro II hubs, I decided to try my hand at building my own wheelset. This book made it possible, easy, and fun. It was easy to follow and very informative about all the dynamics of a wheel as well as how to build one. Free upgrades to the book are a bonus, though I had no problems with the origninal version I purchased (4th Edition). There are instructions and templates provided to makeyour own tools inexpensively, and worth about 10x the cost of the guide. I highly recommend this guide as a resource for any rider.
Weaknesses:
None found.
Similar Products Used:
None, and given my success with this one, I don't see a need to try.
Bike Setup:
'07 Marin Mt. Vision, mostly stock, updgaded to Easton Monkeylite XC Carbon Riser, Thomson Elite X4 Stem, Mavic XM 317- now with Hope Pro II hubs.
Bottom Line:
If you want to build your own wheelset- buy it. If you want to fix a wheel- buy it. If you want to understand what your life is riding on- buy it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
masonmax
a Weekend Warrior
from Roanoke, VA USA Date Reviewed: October 13, 2008
Favorite Trail:
The trail most recently ridden
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
The book is very detailed and includes an abundance of information on rims, hubs, spokes, and more.
Weaknesses:
None.
Similar Products Used:
None.
Bike Setup:
'04 Heckler, Pro II Hubs, DT 540 Rims, DT straight-guage spokes, 36 Talus R, DHX 5 Coil, X9 drivetrain, bla bla bla
Bottom Line:
I wanted to learn the art of wheelbuilding so I did a bunch of research which lead me to Rogers' book. I purchased it and had my first wheel built the following weekend. The text and illustrations are clear and easy to understand. If you want to build wheels this is the only manual you need. BUY THIS AND GO BUILD YOURSELF SOME WHEELS!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Josep
a Weekend Warrior
from Barcelona Date Reviewed: October 13, 2008
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$12.00
Purchased At:
web
Strengths:
Good, cheap, short but enough, easy to understand.
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
Large&professional books
Bike Setup:
Touring bike
Bottom Line:
If you have problems with your wheels, this book is helpful to undestand what's going wrong. Unvaluable help if you plan to make your own (good) wheels. I strongly ecomend it over other kinds of web help, and over big and thick books about the question
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
lescart
a Downhiller
from england Date Reviewed: October 13, 2008
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
web
Strengths:
absolutley fantastic, everything needed to know about wheelbuilding.
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
The wheel, by sheldon brown (i think)
Bike Setup:
none now.
Bottom Line:
cheap, essential reading if wheelbuilding, if it aint here it aint worth knowing! and very cheap when bought electronically. A big bonus as its on my computer cos i can easily go to my fave sections quicker than an actual book.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
locksalordy
a Weekend Warrior
from Sydney, Australia Date Reviewed: October 13, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Main Yarra Trail (Melbourne)
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
Online
Strengths:
V4 of Roger Musson's Guide to Wheel Building is one of the best books available on building bicycle wheels. It is at least as good as Jobst Brandt's classic "The Bicycle Wheel" and better in some respects (less technical, more practical). The "Professional Guide to Wheel Building" just got a whole lot better with the latest edition. Some of the less relevent material is gone, the text is now clearer where it needed to be and the illustrations and photos are improved.
Weaknesses:
None to speak of.
Similar Products Used:
"The Bicycle Wheel" by Jobst Brandt
Bike Setup:
Surly LHT for touring.
Salsa La Raza for the road
Bottom Line:
If you are serious about wheel building, this book is a must have.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave Brunner
a Weekend Warrior
from Nomansland UK (yes, really!) Date Reviewed: October 13, 2008
Favorite Trail:
New Forest
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
On lIne
Strengths:
This is a great book that has helped me understand the mechanics of a wheel and how to build and repair a range of different wheels. The instructions are clear and concise with well produced diagrams to illustrate the points being made.
The book is full of practical tips for building your own tools without spending a fortune and the ways in which to get the best out of them.
Love the fact we get free updates too, and that we can re-print when pages get dog-eared.
Weaknesses:
None worth mentioning
Similar Products Used:
Various on-line help files and bike repair manuals.
Bike Setup:
Full Tourer: Dawes Galaxy 700c wheels
OCR Road Bike: 700c
MTB 26"
Recumbent 26" and 20" wheels.
Bottom Line:
If you have ever wanted to straighten a wheel... this book will set you straight! If you want to try your hand at building, it will hold your hand the first time through!
On the road the knowledge can turn you into a life-saver. Guy turned his mtb wheel into a Pringle in the middle of the woods.. 20 mins later I had him back on the road. One thought, maybe the book should include a First Aid section as I couldn't patch up his elbow/knee :-)
Its the Dogz!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
macnali
a Racer
from Cambridge Date Reviewed: October 13, 2008
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$5.00
Purchased At:
online
Strengths:
Well laid out, simple instructions, easy to follow
Weaknesses:
Nil
Bottom Line:
I recommend this to anyone thinking of repairing/building their own race wheels
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
zimwe
a Downhiller
from dublin, ireland Date Reviewed: October 13, 2008
Favorite Trail:
carrick, wicklow
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$15.00
Purchased At:
online
Strengths:
top quality book, excellent layout. Well explained, good references.
Similar Products Used:
other wheel bulding books
Bottom Line:
well worth investing the money in, overall a top quality product that I have no hesitation reccommending to fellow cyclists!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
slenten
a Cross Country Rider
from Minneapolis, MN, USA Date Reviewed: October 12, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Street is neat.
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
download
Bottom Line:
Since 1981, I've referred to Jobst Brandt's book when I built wheels for my own use. Jobst's treatment of the subject was long on engineering (which is good) and good enough on practical assembly of wheel components. Roger's book, however, really brings balance to the subject with clarity and style. There is no better book on wheel building, period.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
BigGeorge
a Weekend Warrior
from England Date Reviewed: October 12, 2008
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
on line
Bottom Line:
Building wheels is a way to relax and get absorbed into the experience. This book/ download carefully pulls together the author's experinces in an honest way. Its business like in its guidance, but doesn't feel like its written from a laboratory testbench. I enjoy dipping into it and also using it as an aide memoire when I've been away from wheelbuidling for a while and am feeling rusty. The bottom line - it works
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Peter T
a Racer
from Cumbria Date Reviewed: October 12, 2008
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
online
Strengths:
Very clear and comprehensive. There is a wealth of advice here, which will keep you out of trouble both in building and riding.
Bike Setup:
Mainly building wheels for electric cars on 16" Brompton sized rims.
Bottom Line:
It was very good, it's better now.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Stephen
a Racer
from Denmark Date Reviewed: October 12, 2008
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Very comprehensive and descriptive. Lots of illustrations. Every little detail is told.
Weaknesses:
None.
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
Ultegra style racer
Bottom Line:
I don't think I will ever have the chance to build a wheel.
I ride My bike for work. And after a year (10000 km) the front hub couldn't take it anymore. I have realized, the importance of using the right wheel setup. I am not a wheel expert, but this book helps me selecting the best wheels, that will do the job.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
CyclopsChris
a Racer
from North Yorkshire, England Date Reviewed: October 12, 2008
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
I built my first wheel following the previous version of this book and it still runs true and strong. The book was easy to follow, uses clear language and gives no end of useful pertinent advice. Now the latest edition is even better including a great deal of information on building UST wheels. An excellent book well worth the money.
Weaknesses:
None
Bottom Line:
If you've serviced, or built, your own bike at sometime you start thinking about building your own wheels. When you do this is the book to buy, it tells you everything you need to know to build good quality wheels.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
sstefanov
a Cross Country Rider
from Sofia, Bulgaria Date Reviewed: October 12, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Many
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$15.00
Purchased At:
wheelpro.co.uk
Strengths:
Simple, straight forward, very logical explanations
Weaknesses:
None
Bottom Line:
This might come as the best $15 I have spent in for my cycling. I have build 5 wheels myself, which I am riding since more than 1 year, and I could not be more happy. I find the whole process of researching the components, getting them and building them in to a great wheel is very very satisfying.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Phekdra
a Racer
from UK Date Reviewed: October 12, 2008
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$15.00
Purchased At:
Author's web site
Strengths:
Great step-by-step guide to building a wheel.
Weaknesses:
A bit preachy at times.
Similar Products Used:
The Art of Wheelbuilding
Bike Setup:
Two wheels, bars and a saddle
Bottom Line:
The highlight is the excellent step-by-step guide, which took me, a complete novice, from a set of spokes, a rim and a hub to a pair of wheels which are far better than the factory set that came with the bike. But there's also a lot of background information on the components and tools to use and the theory behind the wheel. The best wheel book I've come across.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
EcoRacer
a Cross Country Rider
from Belgium Date Reviewed: October 12, 2008
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
high quality drawings, great tips, checklist, truing stand building plans, good and simple guide...
Weaknesses:
None i can think of.
Similar Products Used:
Free online books, school wheelbuilding books,...
Bottom Line:
This is absolutely the best book i have read so far!
The drawings and pictures are very good and detailed.
This book gave me the courage to finally build my first wheelsets. It has a very good explanation on the more difficult parts of wheelbuilding and a good guide to start building your own truing stand. This is an absolute must buy for every one interested in wheelbuilding!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
PloddinPedro
a Weekend Warrior
from UK Date Reviewed: October 12, 2008
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Strengths:
I've used Roger's book for a number of years, finding it the most clear and comprehensive description of wheel building I've come across. The method works and the book's layout is easy to understand and follow - I wouldn't want to be without it.
Weaknesses:
None.
Similar Products Used:
Job Brandst and others.
Bottom Line:
A great buy.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
rickkane
a Cross Country Rider
from scotland Date Reviewed: October 12, 2008
Favorite Trail:
traquair xc
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$17.00
Purchased At:
online
Strengths:
Straightforward, non-patroninsing language. Excellent full-colour pictures and b&w illustrations. Logical and commonsensical approach that takes all the mystique and sorcery out of wheelbuilding and allows you to gain further ownership of your bike maintenance and overall rider skills. I even built the jig he describes - an awesome piece of kit that, though it made me feel like a super geek when building it, is now covered in stickers, is a special part of my toolkit and I can see me using it until it dies.
Weaknesses:
None.
Similar Products Used:
Sheldown brown's website.
Bike Setup:
on-one pompino for daily, all weather use.
monocog w/ 100mm reba
(both w/ wheels that I've built)
Bottom Line:
If you've been hemming and hawing about the value, need, quality of building your own wheels, get over it and get this. ANYONE can do it if they've got a basic knowledge of mechanics.
Best thing I've ever learned w/ regards to my lifelong love of bikes.
Thanks, Roger.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
linuxman
a Cross Country Rider
from Swan River, Manitoba. Canada Date Reviewed: October 11, 2008
Favorite Trail:
all over
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$18.00
Purchased At:
Wheelpro
Strengths:
Easy to read and understand
Weaknesses:
Haven't found any yet...
Bottom Line:
Not an expert.....yet, but of all the literature, it is one
of the best. Thanks a lot.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Psycho Mike
a Cross Country Rider
from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada Date Reviewed: October 11, 2008
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
Online
Strengths:
Clear, easy to understand text, pictures where needed, makes it easy for a wheel building noob to build their own wheels, upgrades sent to you so it is always current.
Weaknesses:
My original didn't cover Mavic UST building, but the new version deals with it.
Similar Products Used:
on-line resources, hard copy books borrowed from friends
Bike Setup:
'06 Gary Fisher Cake 2 DLX with tons of mods and my own, hand-built UST wheels (Pro II's laced to Mavic XM819's using DT Swiss Comp double-butted spokes).
Bottom Line:
Great book and great support. Roger sent me info on building up a UST set as my first build, even though it wasn't in the book yet.
Using it, I was able to build my first set of wheels, built them up true and built them up amazingly durable for my Clyde-class butt to thrash (and they've stayed true).
Plus, the book includes pointers to make professional looking wheels, on top of well built wheels.
If you're looking at building, this is the book you need to read.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Aged Cat III
a Weekend Warrior
from Fountain Valley, CA, USA Date Reviewed: October 11, 2008
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$10.00
Purchased At:
Online Link
Strengths:
Simple, elegant, and effective wheelbuilding techniques illustrated and written in a simple, elegant, and effective style.
Weaknesses:
None perceived.
Similar Products Used:
Other explanations and books.
Bike Setup:
Not applicable.
Bottom Line:
It is the best book written on the subject because, while addressing the theory and practice attendant to this art, the techniques described in this book ARE EASY TO FOLLOW and ACTUALLY WORK.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
rob
a Cross Country Rider
from Australia Date Reviewed: October 11, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Nerang
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
free update from pre
Strengths:
Was one of the better wheel building guides. Now perhaps the best.
Weaknesses:
There are always improvements. For example: it could also cover Spline Drive Nipples and American Classic nipples; and, could do an explanation of the difference between DT Swiss, Park, Hozan and Wheelsmith Tensiometers. But that is being nit picky huh.
Similar Products Used:
Brandt's book, that bound one (okay I can't remember but it covers DT stuff mostly.
Bottom Line:
THE BICYCLE WHEEL BUILDING BOOK. There is not other better. Buy it once and updates are free and each update just gets better.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dblatter
a Racer
from Littleton Date Reviewed: October 11, 2008
Favorite Trail:
co
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
online
Strengths:
Excellent step by step process for beginner wheel builder. The new updated version is excellent.
Similar Products Used:
Read other articles on wheel building
Bike Setup:
Dean Colonel 29er
Bottom Line:
I have built up two sets of Stans No Tubes Arch wheels following the instructions step by step. These wheels have stayed extremely true through a good season of training and endurance racing. I highly recommend it if you're thinking of trying to build up a set of wheels.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joe_rider
a Racer
from London Date Reviewed: October 11, 2008
A few spelling mistakes & typos but this is just nit-picking.
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
Steel frame racer 28mm wheels, wide, double-eyeleted Rigida racing wheelset
Steel frame mtb, 1.5" wheels, double-eyeleted Rigida also, mtb type
Bottom Line:
I had absolutely zilch experience of wheelbuilding before I purchased this book online at about 8 pounds sterling. It was worth every penny. An excellent investment. It takes a difficult topic and breaks it down into logical sections which are easy to comprehend and follow. I've had it about a year. It took about a fortnight to read in a few sittings. I bought it because I wanted to put together my own bike and specify everything including wheels. Once I had a good grounding in the basics I knew what I wanted, ordered it and then put it together according to the manual, all the time referring back to it. Its not exactly easy- just building the jig and tools is an onerous undertaking in itself, but this is about the best resource you'll find on the subject. It will take a long time to lace the first wheel but after this it's plain sailing. I built a set of racing wheels and have ridden about 500 miles so far on the new racer, no problems at all. I also put together a set of mountain bike wheels just for practice but these turned out nearly just as good although I haven't tested them yet, they've been kept in wait until I restore an old mtb. Top dollar though overall.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ambs09
a Cross Country Rider
from Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil Date Reviewed: October 11, 2008
Favorite Trail:
BR
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$15.00
Purchased At:
web
Strengths:
All info that is needed to build really SOLID performance wheels, with step by step, detailed, almost idiot proof instructions.
Includes info to build DIY jigs and tools to build/repair wheels. Something very useful to know, if you are touring in remote areas, without support.
Weaknesses:
Does not cover exotic lacing patterns.
Similar Products Used:
Web sites (some very good, but not even close to the amount and quality of information provided by the book).
Bottom Line:
All you need to know to build and repair wheels in a neat format.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
GrantL
a Cross Country Rider
from Perth, Scotland, UK Date Reviewed: October 11, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Laggan Wolftrax
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
Online
Strengths:
Excellent book written for beginners, but takes you through to a professional standard. I bought it because I had a few hubs lying around and wanted to give wheelbuilding a go. The first set of wheels I built were a revelation. So much better than the machine built wheels I had. My initial fears about the wheels collapsing were entirely unfounded. That first set have been going for 2 years of serious offroad abuse and are still straight and true. I have gone on to replace (or rebuild) all the wheels on my other bikes. When you understand how a good handbuilt wheel performs, there is no going back. Roger Mussons book costs virtually nothing and will provide you with all the skills you need to build good wheels, and service / repair existing wheels.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
Orange Five, Genesis iO singlespeed, On One Inbred 853 hardtail.
Bottom Line:
Having got used to riding on good handbuilt wheels, I was shocked when I spent £2900 on a MTB earlier this year and realised how poorly built the wheels were on the bike straight from the factory. After the first ride I took the wheels apart and rebuilt them from scratch. This transformed the bike - nice taught strong wheels. Get Roger's book. Its a must have for any serious offroad rider.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
davidf2281
a Cross Country Rider
from London Date Reviewed: October 11, 2008
Favorite Trail:
North Downs Way
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Bottom Line:
Used this book to build myself a couple of 700c wheels with MTB hubs for my commuting singlespeed. Over a year and a million bunny-hops off 6in kerbs later, they're absolutely true. A great guide to wheelbuilding. Definitely recommended.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
stevenbennettday
a Racer
from UK Date Reviewed: October 11, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Chicksands
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$8.00
Purchased At:
wheelpro
Strengths:
This book takes you from knowing nothing about wheel building to building probably the best wheels you will have ever used, especially if your used to machine built wheels. My first project was a pair of 24" wheels used for dirt jumping and bmx/4X racing. After nearly 2 years, hundreds of bad landings, virtually no maintenance they are still as true as the day I finished them. The pleasure you'll get from understanding wheels and being able to true your own and your mates with a decent understanding of what your doing is immense. It's a pretty simple process of following steps, if you're half handy with any kind of tool, you'll be able to do it.
I also built Roger's truing stand rather than buy one, works a treat, mine doesn't look as nice as Roger's but it works well.
One thing about wheel building, it's often more expensive to buy the components individually and build your own than it is to buy a wheelbuild. But it's worth every penny because you know that all the spoke tensions were perfect and you'll know exactly what to do if you ding, rather than messing with the random tensions you sometimes get on machine builds.
Weaknesses:
None - new version is easier to read.
Similar Products Used:
Sheldon Brown website.
Bike Setup:
Dialled Holeshot 4X build.
Bottom Line:
If you're thinking about building a wheel, this will be the best £4 you could possibly spend.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bob Calver
a Cross Country Rider
from UK Date Reviewed: October 11, 2008
Favorite Trail:
France touring
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$8.00
Purchased At:
Online
Strengths:
Very clear and takes you from novice to riding on your own wheels - which do not break even under full touring load.
Weaknesses:
None - it is solid value for money.
Similar Products Used:
None - why do I need anything other than this little gem.
Bottom Line:
I built a front and back wheel with new rims, hubs and spokes a la Roger's recommendations. They have been used on three tours in France, fully laden with front and back panniers, and even all on the back wheel only - no problems at all, not a hint of out of true. If you want to build your own wheels - with this, a cup of coffee and some quiet time, you can.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Fabiobike
a Weekend Warrior
from ITALY Date Reviewed: October 11, 2008
Favorite Trail:
ROAD
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
web
Strengths:
clear and smart
Weaknesses:
draft quality
Similar Products Used:
the art of wheelbldng-Schraner
bicycle wheel book-Jobst
Bike Setup:
carbon frame handmade (and all other components bar, seat, all!) but alu whheels (all campagnolo)
Bottom Line:
i'm a very special user, i know, because the right advices contained in this book, are pretty good for all the wheel building activities. Strange you may think, but how if your best frend need a reset of the motorbike wheels, or you need to do a new set of CARRERA WHELLS. You ca find at www.teamspider.tk the meaning o this. I've liked all the the advices about tools and tricks how to do it yourself. In one season i've builded about 100 wheels, not for bike only, and all these are still running well. This is a good product, with no frills, but theorically and pratically consistent.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Essexboy
a Weekend Warrior
from Auckland, New Zealand Date Reviewed: October 10, 2008
Favorite Trail:
The one that leads to the pub!
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Clear, concise, real world, no Bull book.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
All the standard wheelbuilding texts
Bottom Line:
I've been a professional cycle mechanic for the best part of 20 years, mainly in the UK but now living and working in New Zealand.
This is without doubt the best wheelbuilding book I have ever read. My advice to anyone considering building or repairing wheels, be you a professional mechanic or home machanic, is BUY THIS BOOK!
Roger tells it like it is... no bull, just real world techniques for building good solid long lasting wheels.
Like roger says in his book, wheelbuilding is not some mystical black art it's just engineering... tools and techniques that are repeatable for consistent wheels.
As I said, I have been a pro mechanic for almost 20 years and have built 100s of wheels in my time and I still get a heluva lot from this book.
I printed out my copy and and it lives in my workshop.
I also train the younger mechanics and my advice to them is this... Buy this book it's the only wheelbuilding book you will ever need... read it, absorb it... then follow Roger's step by step instructions... Repeat until you become a good wheelbuilder.
So to sum up... This is THE BEST book out there on the subject! I cannot recommend this book highly enough.
Thank you Roger.
PS. Bob Arnold if you are out there somewhere drop me an email mate!
Dean Bareham
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
djdenhar
a Cross Country Rider
from Madison, Wisconsin Date Reviewed: October 10, 2008
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Concise, direct, and detailed. This book contains practical advice gleaned directly from the author's professional experience both as a wheelbuilder and an engineer. Policy of free upgrades adds great value to this book.
Weaknesses:
No major weaknesses.
Similar Products Used:
"The Bicycle Wheel," Jobst Brandt; Sheldon Brown's webpages.
Bike Setup:
Wheels built primarily for commuting and utility cycling.
Bottom Line:
Purchase this book if you want to learn how to build wheels you can be proud of.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jakob
a Racer
from Vancouver, B.C. Canada Date Reviewed: October 10, 2008
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Online
Bike Setup:
Custom built Steve Goff Frame, (Street/Track), Dura-ace 7700 hubs, Mavic CXP-30 rims, Sugino 75 crank & BB.
Bottom Line:
I used this book for building my first wheel set. While everybody says that you should start with a cheap set of wheels, I happily ignored that and used rather fancy Dura-ace hubs and Mavic rims. 3-cross in the rear and radial in the front. Following the book, I managed to build a seemingly bomb-proof wheel set, although the front could now use a little truing. (But then that was to be expect with a radial lacing).
The book maybe gets a little self-important at times, but it *is* easy to follow and the principles and techniques are clearly described.
I know that I can now build any wheel set I want and do it with confidence.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Terry Duckmanton
a Racer
from Guildford, England Date Reviewed: October 10, 2008
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
Online Upgrade
Strengths:
The original book contained very easy to follow instructions on how to build your own wheel. The new version contains the same instructions with additional data. I wouldn't build a wheel without it.
Weaknesses:
I can't think of any.
Similar Products Used:
Sheldon Brown website - good but not enough information.
Jobst Brandt book - good but too technical
Bike Setup:
Road bikes and an ancient Dawes folder. Will be putting new rims on the Dawes soon.
Bottom Line:
If you want to build your own wheels, and you should because the feeling of I-did-this-myself is really great, you really need this easy to follow book by your side. Shop bought wheels will be no better than the ones you build yourself. By using the techniques shown in the book you are able to build your wheels the way you want them.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
kaszi
a Cross Country Rider
from Szeged, Hungary Date Reviewed: October 10, 2008
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$10.00
Purchased At:
online
Strengths:
Simple and concise - you won't need any other literature to start building your own wheels.
I have built half a dozen so far and made 20000+ kms using them, without any problem
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
no
Bike Setup:
custom built Surly LHT
Bottom Line:
If you want to build wheels, go for it with eyes closed! ;)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
bbm
a Weekend Warrior
from Chicago, IL USA Date Reviewed: October 10, 2008
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$9.00
Purchased At:
wheelpro.co.uk
Similar Products Used:
Sheldon Brown's online instructions
Bottom Line:
Invaluable. Well-written and -illustrated, insightful, I could go on and on. Clear and understandable for the new wheelbuilder, but still with plenty of detailed information for those who want to know more. And he shows you how to make your own tools, including a truing stand! If you've never built a wheel before, but want to, or if you learned from someone else and want to really understand what's going on, get this book.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
HonestFrank
a Weekend Warrior
from Salisbury, NC . U.S.A. Date Reviewed: October 10, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Flat and Straight
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$10.00
Purchased At:
on Line
Strengths:
Very Easy to understand
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
Building Wheels
Bottom Line:
I was able to build a 36 Spoke Wheel the Very First Time using this Very Easy to understand Book.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
joacimli
a Racer
from Stockholm, Sweden Date Reviewed: October 10, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Early morning ride
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$18.00
Purchased At:
http://www.wheelpro.
Strengths:
The complete guide to wheelbuilding with a lot of great advice on tools and equipment that you can make yourself.
Weaknesses:
Could have a section on hubs as well, then it would be the complete hub and whell building an servicing book.
Similar Products Used:
Park blue book
Bike Setup:
Several road bikes and and a cyclocross bike with both custom built and factory built wheelsets
Bottom Line:
The complete DIY wheel building and servicing book.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Michael
a Cross Country Rider
from Bangor Date Reviewed: September 19, 2008
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$18.00
Purchased At:
Online
Strengths:
Used the book to build several wheels now and its still superb. Roger also very happy to help with queries regarding building. Includes uprgrades too!
Weaknesses:
None
Bottom Line:
If you want to build your own wheels this is the book to have.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nick Minett
a Weekend Warrior
from Melbourne Date Reviewed: June 15, 2008
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$18.00
Bottom Line:
Buying this book has immediately saved me $$$. It was a great investment not only for the development of building skills but the savings in tools and equipment. Very practical no bulls*^# approach to wheel building.... Warning if you have preexisting ideas about what makes a good wheel and what doesnt you may have trouble accepting the Authors straightforward advice
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gavin
a Cross Country Rider
from Wellington, New Zealand Date Reviewed: May 27, 2008
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$10.00
Purchased At:
online
Strengths:
This book gave me the information and confidence needed to build my own wheels. I did a test build a few times on an old wheel and then built up some Stan's ZTR Race Rims with DT Revolution spokes, a 1250gm XC race wheelset.
The books is easy to follow, well written and has some great tips such as the nipple holder.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
Custom Strong Titanium hardtail, now with a custom set of race wheel :-)
Bottom Line:
IF you need to true or want to build wheels or just want some more info on wheels, you should pick up this book
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
YY Orr
a Weekend Warrior
from Strichen, Aberdeenshire, Scotland Date Reviewed: May 17, 2008
Favorite Trail:
rolling coastal roads in fine summer weather
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$16.00
Purchased At:
direct from R Musson via PayPal
Strengths:
Well-presented and nicely put: friendly approach. Buy it direct and you can upload revisions free, make as many copies as you need for your own use and e-mail the writer direct with any problems, so the value and follow-up service are brilliant !
Weaknesses:
I don't think there are any major weaknesses, bearing in mind that I would never go by just one book on any subject: this is a really valuable book to start from.
Similar Products Used:
"The Bicycle Wheel" (Brandt) DT Swiss wheelbuilding handbook Many, many other articles, course notes etc The Bike Inn wheelbuilding DVD
Bike Setup:
which one ?!!!
Bottom Line:
You really wouldn't want to start building wheels without this book ! It's a really excellent reference: I go back to it time and again.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pete Owen
a Cross Country Rider
from London, UK Date Reviewed: April 10, 2008
Favorite Trail:
South Downs, or twisty foresty singletrack anywhere
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Purchased At:
online
Strengths:
Easy to read, easy to understand. Comprehensive, informative without being too technical, but the tech info is there if you need it.
Weaknesses:
Only that you have to pay for it! But the guy's got to make a living, and if I'd put this much work into it I'd want some cash back.
Similar Products Used:
"The Bicycle Wheel" by Jobst Brandt; www.sheldonbrown.com/wheelbuild.html; CyTech wheelbuilding training.
Bike Setup:
Solitude Cycles custom singlespeed. Wheels I built myself: front is a 36-hole Schmidt SON laced 3-cross with Sapim Race spokes to Mavic 618, rear is Phil Wood KISS-Off 36-hole 3-cross to another Mavic 618.
Bottom Line:
A brilliant book. As I said in "strengths", it's easy reading and very easy to understand. There's enough infomation to get you started but plenty to guide you through more exotic builds.
With a no-nonsense approach, Roger guides you through each aspect of a wheel build, from the basic anatomy of a wheel to different materials, different styles and the physics of the forces a wheel experiences. He even details how to build your own wheel-truing jig and tools. His experience is evident throughout: his recommendations are based on what actually works.
After buying, I found out that by following the initial link you were sent (save that email) Roger gives you free updates for life! As he's just brought out a new edition I was very happy to download the latest one free.
I've built well over a hundred wheels since reading this book (I'm a bike mechanic) and Roger's methods and teaching have proved the most reliable. I can't recommend it highly enough.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
rob bowers
a Cross Country Rider
from MtTamborine Qld Australia Date Reviewed: April 10, 2008
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
web
Strengths:
Best book out there to get started with. Okay also for experienced wheelbuilders.
Weaknesses:
Could do with some editing by an engineer. Still a few things to add or clarify but not much.
Similar Products Used:
I have pretty much every other wheel building manual or bike tech book you can imagine.
Bike Setup:
Which bike? The roadie, fixed wheel, single speed, XC, DH, trials, rigid, bmx or beater?
Bottom Line:
If you buy only one book make it this one.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Randy Collette
a Racer
from Wilmington, NC Date Reviewed: March 21, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Dupont State Forest
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
online
Strengths:
Very accurate, easy to follow guide. If you could own only one book on wheels, it should be this one.
Weaknesses:
Lots of printer ink.
Similar Products Used:
If it is in english, I have read it.
Bottom Line:
I bought this simply because I had money in my paypal account and I like to read about wheel building. Mr. Musson could bind and print this and sell it for triple the money. His information is spot on, and his jigs are very smart. His guide for radial truing is very smart, and I have modified my tools to use a similar gauge. I have done things the same way for a decade, building tons of wheels for many people, and this guide made me rethink some of my methods. In wheel building, experience is the most important thing. Here it is available for $20.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tamas Papp
a
from Princeton, NJ, USA Date Reviewed: February 15, 2008
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$18.00
Purchased At:
http://www.wheelpro.co.uk/wheelbuilding/book.php
Strengths:
The book is amazing. I am mechanically inclined, but had no prior wheelbuilding experience. I wanted a bike with a hub gear and decided to learn wheelbuilding. The book introduces the necessary theoretical and practical knowledge, and also shows you how to build your own tools (you don't need a truing stand for a few wheels as you can use your frame, but DO make the nipple driver as Musson tells you, it makes your life easier).
Weaknesses:
None.
Similar Products Used:
Brandt's book, but that has less practical information and more theory. If you are buying a single book, buy Musson's.
Bike Setup:
Hybrid, with hub gear/roller brakes in the rear and disc in the front, I built both wheels using this book.
Bottom Line:
The wheels I built using this book are holding up amazingly well, even though I am using them on rough terrain sometimes. They are still perfectly true, no adjustments needed after building.
The book discusses all the practical knowledge you need to build a good wheel, including measurement of the hub and the rim (also see the calculator on Musson's site), choice of spokes and nipples, the use of oil over loctite, tolerances, repairing wheels, etc. The part about wheelbuilding gives you a step-by-step guide that is easy to follow. Just about every question I came up with had an answer in there. And all the discussion is easy to understand and requires no prior knowledge of wheelbuilding.
Also, the illustrations are really well-done and professional.
Buy the book, and enjoy the independence allowed by building your own wheels. Recently I obtained a dynamo hub for a bargain price, which I wouldn't have done if I had to shell out a lot of money to have a wheel built around it, but now I know I can build it myself for the cost of the rim and spokes.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
gary
a Cross Country Rider
from france Date Reviewed: January 28, 2008
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$17.00
Purchased At:
onlinr from rogers website
Strengths:
fabulous simple easy to read and understand book
Weaknesses:
none..well my wife complained at the amount of printer ink to print 100 pages..haha
Similar Products Used:
wheelbuilding by sheldon brown
Bike Setup:
marin b17 downhill/freeride full xt hope c2 brakes
fat chance shockabilly sub 24lb xc..hope and ti everything
Bottom Line:
the only wheelbuilding book you will ever need..this book will lead you gently through every stage of building your wheel from selecting components to the finished wheel..explanations and diagrams are given to construct your own simple but effective tools removing the need to spend a fortune on specialist tools which ,lets face it,is one reason many people are put off trying to build their own wheels.I read it through twice, built a stand, and had my first rear wheel built in under 4 hours.It required some patience and care but roger's book makes it easy.I was also astonished by the improvement in the ride of my bike when i followed the same instructions and simply slackened and then properly re-tensioned the spokes in my front wheel.I have no idea what it costs to have a new wheel built these days,but I bet its not £9.Plus the satisfaction of doing it myself.BUY this book and build your own..5 flaming chilis all round
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
M Smith
a Cross Country Rider
from Bangor, N.Ireland Date Reviewed: January 11, 2008
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$18.00
Purchased At:
Wheelpro.co.uk
Strengths:
Simple to follow, easy to get hold of. Clear diagrams and how to build your own tools guide is brilliant.
Weaknesses:
None so far
Bottom Line:
Just read the PDF and it all is easy to read and follow. Looking forward to my first wheel build. Definatley suitable for the beginner who wants to start building their own wheels.
Roger thanks for this guide and the myth busting!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike T.
a Cross Country Rider
from Ontario Canada Date Reviewed: December 4, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$18.00
Purchased At:
Wheelpro.co.uk
Strengths:
Low on the hi-tech. All you need is here without the science stuff.
Weaknesses:
Not a thing that will prevent you from building a pro level wheel.
Similar Products Used:
Brandt's "The Bicycle Wheel". Schraner's "The Art of Wheelbuilding". Every other article on wheelbuilding that I can lay my hands on.
Bottom Line:
I'm in my 5th decade of home wheelbuilding and it's been a lifelong passion. I bought this resource just to read what Roger had to say on the subject.
This e-book is the perfect wheelbuilding resource by pro wheelbuilder Roger Musson. Buy it through Roger's site (http://www.wheelpro.co.uk/)or RoadBikeRider.com (he allows you 5 downloads) and if you wish, print it out and get it bound at Staples. Mine cost me $4.
Roger describes every stage in wheelbuilding in a non-technical manner from selecting components, through making your own simple wheelbuilding tools to the actual wheelbuilding itself. Roger admits that he holds nothing back; read the book and you will know all that he knows. The book is profusely illustrated with drawings and photographs and comes with a checklist at the back (with page reference numbers) so you don't have to wade through the whole book when building your wheel.
He also covers repairs from rim replacement to spoke breakage and busts a few myths along the way.
Don't let the fear and mystique of wheelbuilding hold you back any longer. After this book and after your first wheel you'll forever be totally self-sufficient when it comes to maintaining and building wheels.
I've read (heck, I own) all the other wheelbuilding books and articles and this book is the finest single wheebuilding source I've ever seen.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
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