I was just noticing this trend in other threads. So factory wheels are now so common that the hand-builts are the unusual? I like it! - TF

I was just noticing this trend in other threads. So factory wheels are now so common that the hand-builts are the unusual? I like it! - TF

The reason not to ride hand-built wheels (everybody has them) is now the reason to ride them (nobody has them). Makes sense to me. I was "in" then I was "out" and now I'm "in" again, all with the same wheels :)

Many wheels (including lots of factory wheels) are built by hand. Custom means you specc'ed the parts yourself. Plenty of good factory wheels and crappy customs are out there, just because it's hand built by someone doen't make it better. Having a properly specced, prepped, built and tested wheel by an expert wheelbuilder- is often better. However, decerning the good wheelbuilders from the hacks with a spoke key is critical.

Many wheels (including lots of factory wheels) are built by hand. Custom means you specc'ed the parts yourself. Plenty of good factory wheels and crappy customs are out there, just because it's hand built by someone doen't make it better. Having a properly specced, prepped, built and tested wheel by an expert wheelbuilder- is often better. However, decerning the good wheelbuilders from the hacks with a spoke key is critical.
Knowing the hacks from the masters is important whether they are factory or custom. Most don't know and buy for fashion. All are influenced my marketing and perception. - TF

Almost sounds like getting a HOMEmade pie that was baked in the kitchen of the restaurant. Just a poor use of terminology.

Many wheels (including lots of factory wheels) are built by hand. Custom means you specc'ed the parts yourself...

Good explanation.

. . .when people started paying $1k for a set of factory wheels that look bling but aren't any lighter or durable or repairable as conventional lace ups? :out: