Unless you're going to build your own wheels instead of just truing them, this:
Originally Posted by
chewybrian
... a truing stand, spoke wrenches, and maybe a tension meter...
...does not equal this:
Originally Posted by
chewybrian
But I want to expand my abilities, to save money and time and get it done right the first time (hopefully).
Truing up your wheels is a $15 job (mine is $12 at my LBS). The equipment you mention above is probably about $150 for some cheap tools. If you're going to buy this stuff, you'll eventually want to build your own wheels, and not stop at "just" truing them. That's where the real money savings comes in.
But yes, to get started, just use a spoke wrench ($12) and your bike's brake pads. Learn the basics: which direction to turn the spoke, and how tight to make it. Alot of people disagree, but you'll want to learn how to pluck the spokes so you can hear their tension unless you invest in a tensiometer ($50). (I own a tensiometer and use it and still pluck the spokes, too.)
And, this is It, right here:
Originally Posted by
Kotts
The most important tool is a Zen-like patience with the process. It can't be rushed, or rather it can be rushed, but the result is not good. Tiny adjustments, much repitition, and a willingness to stop and walk away when you're getting tired, frustrated or cross-eyed.