How to Build a Mountain Bike Wheel

A carbon Spinergy mountain-bike wheel that was handbuilt by a true wheelsmith.

Building bicycle wheelsets is an acquired skill that takes years of practice to master. Many of the best builders were trained as apprentices in bike shops around the globe; however, some at-home mechanics also have the gift of being able to spin a perfectly true wheel from the various necessary components. Mountain-bike wheels are especially hard to build, as they require more strength and continual adjustments to stay true. Building mountain-bike wheels from scratch is not necessarily a difficult task if you have the correct tools and materials, which can be easily obtained. You can purchase what you need from a reputable bike shop or an online source such as Performance Bicycle or Nashbar Bicycle. It is advisable to discuss your wheel project with a tech at the store or site so he can advise you on the correct (and best) parts for your application.

Things You'll Need

• 64 spokes
• 64 nipples
• 2 rim hoops
• Front wheel hub
• Rear wheel hub
• Spoke wrench
• Screwdriver
• Pliers
• Truing stand

Instructions

1. String one spoke through the spoke hole on the rim of the hub. Then pull the end of the spoke through a spoke hole in the bicycle rim and screw a nipple onto the end of the spoke. Next, find a hole in the hub opposite of the newly installed spoke and string a spoke through this hole and the corresponding rim hole. Screw on a nipple and continue in this pattern of opposite-.spoke matching until all of the spoke holes on the rim and hub are filled.

2. Use the screwdriver to tighten the nipples from the inside of the rim. (There is a flat slot in the top of each nipple for this purpose.) Tighten all of the nipples down to what is perceived as equal pressure, then mount the wheel in the truing stand. Use the spoke wrench to tighten each spoke a little bit at a time until the wheel is taut. Now, using the truing stand as a guide, tighten or loosen each spoke to pull or push the rim into being "true," or straight.

3. When the wheel is straight and true, wrap the rim tape inside of the rim to prevent punctures from the tops of the nipples. Then slide the tube and tire onto the rim. Pump up the tire, then repeat the entire process for the second wheel.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember to take this process slowly. The more time you devote and the more delicate the touch you use, the more likely it is that your wheels will be strong and true for a long time to come.

• When you take your first ride on the newly built wheels, you will hear them popping and clicking. This is the sound of the spokes "settling," and should not alarm you. However, you will need to re-true the wheels at the end of the day, as they will now appear warped.

Resources

• Great online resource for all of your wheelbuilding needs