Latest Custom Builds — Wheel Builds

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...

We heard from Dylan after an unfortunate accident where he managed to bend the IS 6 bolt rotor mounts on his front hub of his Polygon Bend gravel rig. Polygon were unable to supply a new hub, but we came to the rescue with a quality Bitex BX201FG Centrelock replacement. A step up in quality, and a handy reduction in weight. He chose Centrelock for the replacement as he already had a spare rotor to suit that standard. We laced his original rim onto this new hub with Sapim Race spokes and Dylan was riding again in no time.

We’ve known Steve since the turn off the century when both he and XLR8 worked as bike messengers in Sydney. He’s a big unit and got in contact to discuss some new carbon hoops for his road bike, to service him on the rural roads of mid western New South Wales.Those roads are somewhere between awful and terrible, and Steve wanted a shallow depth carbon wheel that would still be stiff to accomodate his considerable power output. Having owned a retail bike store, and currently working as a mobile mechanic, he knows his stuff but appreciated our spec advice.Bigger guys...

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...