Originally Posted by
mudboy
Many shops don't build wheels anymore. I would certainly expect shops with a Peter White/Hiawatha/Rivendell type clientele to have a cutter, but there just aren't that many of that type of shop left. Even my LBS, where they appreciate "old" steel framed, wire wheeled steeds, sells nothing but pre-built wheels.
That's certainly the case here in Rome. If I want a carbon race wheel and I have a sack of cash, there are places, but I've not found anyone who is capable or willing (not sure which, I think a little of both, perhaps) to build a wheel. They just point you to the Campagnolo or Fulcrum wheels on the wall. Which are fine and lovely, but not what I asked for!