Latest Custom Builds — 27.5"

Michael is a local rider that we've ridden with over the years. He's certainly handy on the bike and uses his equipment hard. He contacted us when the alloy nipples started cracking on his Spank Oozy Trail 395 wheelset (supplied as original equipment on his bike). This is not uncommon, especially with the lower quality alloy nipples used as OEM (Original Equipment of Manufacture). It is certainly exacerbated when the nipples and spokes are not prepared correctly, nor the threads sealed following the build process. Keen for a pragmatic solution, that ensures better long term reliability, we suggested plain gauge Sapim...

Madi had been riding a set of ENVE carbon MTB wheels for some time, but always struggled to get tyres on and off. The final straw was a crack that appeared in one. It was time for some new rims. She approached us to rebuild her DT Swiss 240 hubs onto some wide, reliable and light 26" rims. Being lightweight (but still loving the tougher downhill tracks) we knew that the Syntace MX series of rims would be perfect for her. The Syntace W35 MX rims are 30mm internally, but impressively light. The finish is fantastic as well, with the Satin bead...

Mike specifically wanted an alloy rim build, with Project 321 hubs for his Norco. After some discussion he selected the new Spank Oozy Trail 350 Vibrocore rims. Vibrocore is a biodegradable foam Spank injects into the rim. It reduces vibrations and Trail " noise". And it works! Spank states that “the low density, pressurised core performs a similar function to the soft tissue inside bones, increasing inner wall strength and absorbing vibrations.” It is also available as an option in their range of handlebars as well. Of course, Sapim Race black spokes and brass nipples completed this build, being tough, light and...

XLR8 rides with Scott whenever on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, where the trails are rocky, steep and very technical. Scott really wanted a lighter set of hoops for his 27.5+ Rocky Mountain - but they also had to be stiffer and lighter than the alloy hoops that came with the bike.Being a bit of a gear smasher, and not one for doing much maintenance, Project321 hubs are a wise choice. They are super tough, ultra reliable and have the fastest engagement he required for steep step ups and rock slabs. Even in black (they come in a wide array of cool...

Ben is another ex bicycle courier (messenger) who XLR8 worked with in a past life. We remember he was always a big fan of Paul Components hubs, and when he ordered a new Singlespeed frame, they were a given. He came to use for advice on a solid carbon 27.5" wheel build. Light, but not too light. Wide, but not too wide (he wanted to keep the bike spritely), at reasonable price and with good warranty. We suggested Nextie Classic XC rims with a 25mm internal width. These work well with narrower tyres, and are super light and stiff. They'll bag...