Starting to notice that the rear wheel on my bike is coming out of round, with about 1/8"-1/4" of side to side movement. I've attempted truing it, but I know that truing a damaged wheel without ever having built a wheel from scratch is very hard.
That said, I don't necessarily want to build a wheel myself (yet) though I'm open to that if that's the best way to proceed.
I could have the wheel repaired, but I'm thinking the low spoke count (24) and the way I use my bike, it's inevitable that the wheel is going to keep getting damaged. The rim sidewalls are pretty worn anyways. 99% sure these are the original wheels and so are over 10 years and god knows how many miles old.
As most of you know, I regularly put 400 pound loads on or behind my bike (my weight, pannier weight, and trailer weight so I need some HEAVY duty wheels.
Front wheel seems fine, but if it's economical to buy a full set rather than just wheel, I can do that, but the vast majority of the load is on the rear.
-700C, and I'd like to run 700x28 tires, as I've already got a new Gatorskin
-V-brakes
-Shimano 8 speed cassette (Deore/LX drivetrain)
So... recommendations? I can't spend a ton, but I also want something that will last.
Alternatively, if any of you think scratch building a wheel is the right way for me to get what I want, a recommended parts list would be great too :)