Alex and our Chief Wheelbuilder worked together in the late 90s as bike couriers (messengers for all of you in the States) in Sydney. Since then we’ve helped him out for race wheels, and were very happy when he approached us to assist in making his dream reality.
Like many of us who have been riding the road for years, he yearned to recreate a bike that he lusted after in his early racing years. A bike he could never afford at the time, and a bike that is hallowed amongst the cognoscenti. A steel Colnago.
He provided XLR8 with a beautifully polished set of Dura Ace 8 speed hubs (we do perform polishing as well – get in contact) and asked us to build them onto Mavic Open rims. In this case a modern black anodised rim was used, as used Mavic Open 4 rims would not have been acceptable for a bike that Alex plans to keep forever.
There are only two groupsets that are worthy of such a chassis, Campagnolo C-Record or Shimano Dura Ace 7400. Being a Shimano man, Alex chose the latter, and over several years pieced together an immaculate groupset.
With that in mind (and a promise from Alex that he’ll ride this bike once a week) we specified Sapim Laser ultralight butted stainless spokes for the front wheel – to ensure light weight, but adequate stiffness. Sapim alloy nipples were a logical light weight choice.
On the rear, Sapim Race double butted spokes were used – alloy nipples on the non-driveside, and brass on the driveside. This will ensure adequate stiffness and longevity – the rear wheel gets a much harder life than the front.
The result is a beautiful set of wheels, that are a perfect compliment to this beautiful retro ride. We’re sure you’ll agree!
If you are planning something special, don’t leave the wheels to chance. You can be confident that XLR8 has the knowledge and experience to get it right – first time.
