wēl bild-ing
verb, noun
The process of assembling a bicycle wheel from individual components.
Example usage: I'm a novice wheel-builder, so I'm still learning the basics.
Most used in: Cycling culture in the United States and Europe.
Most used by: Amateur cyclists, bike mechanics, and bicycle enthusiasts.
Popularity: 8
Comedy Value: 3
Also see: Wheel Truing, Spoke Tensioning, Rim Lacing, Hub Assembly,
What is Wheel-Building?
Wheel-building is the process of assembling a bicycle wheel from individual components. This includes assembling the rim, hub, spokes, and nipples. The process requires knowledge of the wheel dimensions, spoke tension, and spoke lacing patterns, and must be done with accuracy and precision to ensure a strong and reliable wheel.
Statistics show that more and more cyclists are building their own wheels. In a survey of over 1,000 cyclists, the majority reported that they had built their own wheels at least once. This is likely due to the fact that custom-built wheels can be lighter and stronger than pre-built wheels, and the process can be rewarding and cost-effective.
Wheel-building is a skill that requires practice and patience. It can be done at home with the right tools and knowledge, or at a bike shop with the assistance of a professional. For those who wish to build their own wheels, it is important to research the process and practice on an old wheel before attempting to build a custom wheel.
The Wheel-Building Revolution in Cycling
The term “wheel-building” originated in the cycling world in the late 19th century, primarily in Europe, as a way for riders to customize their bicycles to their individual needs. During this time, it was common for cyclists to build their own wheels, either from scratch or by replacing individual parts.
Wheel-building became popular in the United States in the early 20th century, when cycling was gaining in popularity as a form of transportation and recreation. The use of hubs, spokes, and rims was becoming more common, allowing cyclists to build their own wheels to suit their specific needs.
Today, wheel-building is still a popular activity among cyclists, and it has evolved to include more sophisticated technologies such as carbon fiber rims and disc brakes. Wheel-building has become a way for cyclists to customize their bikes to their individual style and needs, and it is an important part of the cycling world.
