The Art of Wheelbuilding: A Bench Reference for Neophytes, Pros & Wheelaholics (Spiral-bound)
by Gerd Schraner
Product Details
This new manual explains in detail the Gerd Schraner methods of building professional-quality wheelsets. Well written and easy-to-understand instructions provide information and inspiration for any mechanic-from the first-timer to a seasoned professional. 104 pages. By Gerd Schraner.
There are two well know wheel building books on the market. "The Bicycle Wheel" by Jobst Brandt is one, and the other is this book. While I like the Brandt book, I think this one is my favorite. Brandt's book is full of engineering explanation of how wheels work. I think that is important to know, but I want to know more about wheel building, not just the science behind wheels. Schraner's book concentrates more on actually building wheels and the sport of cycling. Also, the books physical form is easier to lay on a bench and use while actually building a wheel.
With the most easy to follow directions, this book has helped a total novice become a sought after wheel builder. After building more that 30 sets in the last year, I still open the book and refer to various sections to "tighten" my technique. If you are simply a "bike freak" this makes for great reading. It helps you understand the importance of well built wheels.
I'm not sure if this book was translated from German (my guess), but the grammar leaves much to be desired. Directions are often confusing due to diagrams and text that don't quite jibe. I would expect more from a truing section than "it is a trial and error process". Mr. Schraner obviously has a lot of knowledge, I just don't feel it comes through clearly in the book.
While this book won't make a true wheelwright out of the reader, it will certainly explain in clear terms how a wire wheel actually works. In doing so it gives the reader the key points nessesary to develop the skills to becoming a wheelwright without miring down in technical minutia. In short, this is the book to start with.