Topic: '74 CB550 18" alloy rims F/R

[charlie27]

Hi,

I am considering lacing up a set of 18" rims front and rear.

I did some searching on the site and looked at FAQ but could not find info on those who have done it and the results.  what rims, rim width, did you lace it yourself or have someone else build the wheel?  what tires?  are you happy with the result?

thanks

[Roach Carver]

Buchanans can do it for you. Thats all I know.

[Bodi]

There are a lot of things to get right. The rim or dimples have to be drilled at the correct angles, and the front is different from the rear. The holes have to match the spoke nipples. The spokes length will be slightly different from stock in most cases  the alloy is thicker than the steel ones so the spokes might not engage the nipples enough, and a drop-centre rim will need shorter spokes.
I have drilled my own alloy rims and laced them successfully, I had a wheel expert do the final truing. It was a lot of work. Having Buchanans or Central do it for you is worth at least what they charge.