Bicycle Mechanics - Best place to have wheel rebuilt?

My friend has a 2002 Trek XO-1 cyclocross bike with matrix rims, sora hubs and I cannot remember the type of spokes. He keeps breaking spokes at the nipple on the rear. He is probably 200lbs which shouldn't be a problem for this bike. The tires have varied from the original knobbies to Vittoria 700 x 25c road. He breaks a spoke out on a ride, takes the wheel in, they replace the spoke, check tension and sends him on his way (3 times now). No cyclocross riding, just bike paths, some gravel and mostly pavement.

So, my question to all the pro mechanics here; what should he do? Can he send it somewhere and have them start over with new DT or Wheelsmith spokes? Can you suggest a good wheel building shop in the DC area to do the same? He just wants this fixed.

Thank you,
Justin

Repeat broken spokes is a sign that it is time to get a rebuild, them breaking at the nipple tends to show that the spokes may have an inherent issue as they usually break at the J-hook when fatigued out. If it is the nipples breaking then be sure to use brass ones next time.

He should be able to get it built locally, ask around the cyclists you konow if no one here knows of a good builder. He may want to change to a beefier rim while doing the build as well.

Thanks for the info Rev, I'll pass it onto my friend.

Thanks,
Justin

123bikes (http://www.123bikes.com/results.php?startpage=bikes&cat_id=38)

I was in a jam at a race once and they built me up a set that worked great and stayed true and did not break the bank. Also, WheelSmith is good and there are a few others. As Rev said though, try and ask some of the local riders. It is much easier to deal with some one local.

:beer:

JB,

If he is in DC or Md check these shops:
Proteus in lanham Md. (across the street from UMd).
Georgetown (I forget name of shop) along canal
(towpath cycles? Georgetown cyclesport?)
Best bet tho, go see Larry at Mt. Airey (spelling?) cycles
out towards Columbia Md. best shop around.

Marty