Wheel build kits?
 

Does anyone sell full wheel build kit in which every component fits, the spokes are the right length, etc? Keep in mind this is for a beginner who wants for build a cheap wheel but doesn't want to have to match all the parts.

You can do this. But if your goal is to learn to build a wheel, consider taking a relatively crappy used wheel, disassembling it, and then putting it back together from scratch.

If you do this, you'll want to pay attention to where the spokes have pressed themselves into the aluminum of the hub flange, and also keep track of leading vs. trailing spokes from each side, as the spokes are bent around each other and around the hub flange. So it's not exactly the same as building a totally new wheel totally from scratch. But you'll basically get the same practice.

Yeah, it's called a pre-built wheel set. Order them over the internet or wherever, take them apart and reassemble them. I can buy the component parts for wholesale prices but I won't save much, if any, money over the cost of a pre-assembled wheelset.

+1

If you want to build wheels from scratch you'll need to learn how to measure hubs and rims so you can use a spoke calculator to determine spoke lengths required. If your not willing to do that it's best to purchase pre-built wheels. This site goes into detail on how to do it all.
http://www.geocities.com/spokeanwheel/

Why not try SYMMETRISPOKES? :love:

Endorsed by Jobst Brandt! :thumb:

DT Swiss makes great hubs, rims, and spokes and they offer a calculator on their site. Follow this link to that calculator and enter the information that is needed to make the spoke calculations. You will need to know what rim and hub model you wish to use in your wheel. If you know the weight of the rim and hub you can enter that and will be given a total weight for each wheel. Once you've entered in the type spoke and nipple you wish to use the calculator will tell you what size spokes you will need. You can can create an account and save this info or you can print it out. Also, find Sheldon Browns site and look at his wheelbuilding basics to help you with yourproject.

Don't be worried about trying to tackle this project. It's not black magic. You just need to have a methodical approach, take your time, and work carefully to ensure that the wheel is properly tensioned and true. Do that and you'll build a good strong wheel that will last for a long time. Don't be afraid to post up questions here.

Mike