When I proposed a wheel-building demonstration for Cirque '09, some people expressed interest in learning how to build wheels start to finish. This is really longer and more involved than fits Cirque, but I have another offer. I have arranged for a conference room at the Leesburg Best Western for Monday June 8, and will teach a hands-on wheel-building class if there is enough demand for it. The class would start in advance of Cirque with individual email discussions of rim choice, spoking pattern, spoke calculations and online resources. Students would report to the class with hubs and rims in hand, and spokes if it is convenient. I will have spokes available at reasonable prices. The hands-on portion of the class will take approximately 8 hours on Monday, with a lunch break and probably refreshments during the class. In that time, each student will lace, tighten and true a pair of wheels. The goal is that with advance reading and preparation, then professional guidance during the build process, the students' wheels will meet or exceed industry standards for good quality wheels. Beyond that, the students should leave the class with the knowledge and resources to be able to repeat the process whenever they like. Tuition for the class will be $95, which does not include rims, hubs or spokes. In order to be able to offer the class, I will need a minimum of six students, and can conveniently deal with a maximum of 10. I will also need commitment to take the class no later than April 15, in order that I can make the time commitment away from my day job and assemble the tools I will need in order to offer the class. Please contact me off list if you are interested, and I will be glad to answer any questions you may have.
Earle Young Madison, Wisconsin, USA Offering expert wheelbuilding services for classic and modern bicycles