Every now and then, let's talk about something like this.
What exactly is a bicycle wheel?
It’s a vital component for moving a bicycle forward, and since they say "style starts at your feet," it also has a huge impact on appearance.
Wheels are such a truly essential component.
This time, I'm not going to talk about performance, but rather how they are built.
In the world of bicycle wheels, there are two types: "factory-built" and "hand-built."
"Factory-built" refers to wheels that come as finished products from the manufacturer, and generally, there is almost no need for us shop mechanics to perform major adjustments. (Fine-tuning is necessary, and admittedly, some of them are in such a state that we have no choice but to work on them.)
Due to their design, some are adjusted for a broad range of people or for pros/pro-level riders, rather than being built with a specific individual customer in mind.
That brings us to "hand-building," which is a Circles specialty.
The advantage of "hand-building" is, as the name implies, that we choose every single component that makes up the wheel, and we mechanics assemble it to create a "wheel" that is a perfect fit for the rider.
I'd like to introduce the process of how those hand-built wheels are made.
First, the simple groundwork. We trim the spokes to the proper length and apply thread locker to the threaded ends to prepare for assembly.
With the hubs, rims, spokes, and nipples ready, we begin the temporary assembly.
This time it's ENVE 25mm + Chris King R45; it makes me excited to get to work.
Once the temporary assembly is done, the spokes are still loose and wobbly, but it looks like a proper wheel.
As expected of ENVE + Chris King, it’s already looking cool.
Up to this point, the work is relatively dynamic.
Watching the wheel take shape so quickly is exciting.
From here, we tighten the nipples one by one.
Along the way, we measure the tension on the spokes, adjusting it subtly based on the rider and their riding style as we build.
After this, we repeatedly check the wheel center, measure the tension, and correct any lateral or radial run-out to ensure the wheel forms a perfect circle.
This process is so low-key and visually monotonous that it’s not very exciting to watch, but it is extremely important and time-consuming. The quality of the wheel hinges on this work, which makes it nerve-wracking, but it’s also very enjoyable. It’s one of the best parts of being a bike mechanic.
Well, after going through that process, all that's left is to mount the tires, and it's complete.
Man, this wheel looks incredibly cool.
The frame it's going on has already been decided, but it’s still a secret.
I'll introduce that another time.
So, about Circles' specialty: hand-built wheels.
If you're interested, please feel free to consult with us at any time.
We'll take into account your riding style, build, preferences, and various other factors to help you complete your very own pair!!