is it cheaper to buy a wheelset or build my own?

Question

i wanted to buy a new Mavic crossmax wheelset (disc version) but its going to cost over $600. would it be cheaper to build my own if i buy the hub, spokes, and rims on ebay? i have the knowledge and the tools, i just want to know if its more economically feasible.

Answer 1

I would save yourself the headache and buy the wheels... Building wheels and truing them is an art form.

Answer 2

Build them!

WTB laser lite hubs
Mavic XC-717 rims
Alloy nipples
DT double butted 14/15 spokes

About $300 to $350 for the pair, shop around.
They are lighter than the Mavic's and stronger.

I built up this exact set of wheels with 3 cross, I'm 180lbs, i have raced these wheels for two years and they are still in great shape.

Or have these built for an extra $50 to $75 depending on the shop rate.

Answer 3

If you have to ask this question, do you really think you have the skills to pull off building a quality wheels set.
It is much harder than it looks, lots of technique involved in getting it right the first time.
You may save yourself some headaches in the long run and buy them built.
If you have built a few wheel sets and have learned from your mistakes. Then you would already know the answer to the question.

Answer 4

I'll let you work out the economics of it... but I wouldn't buy wheel parts on eBay. Buy new stuff from a real dealer.

The real reasons guys build their own wheels is that they just like wrenching, it's a new challenge, and it's a really handy skill in the bike world.

On the downside, expect a learning curve. Esp. w/ disc brakes, you need to understand why wheels are laced a certain way and what will and won't hold up to real world riding.

Good references:
"The Bicycle Wheel" by Jobst Brandt. Old school book that explains the physics and engineering really well.

"A practical guide to wheelbuilding" ebook from http://www.roadbikerider.com/wb_page.htm

Answer 5

do the math