Hey folks, more details to come but here’s a quick and dirty placeholder blog for you!
The RyanBuildsWheels build queue and booking system is closing for a short period from now (6th May) and will re-open with fresh bookings on July 18th.
I’m going to be open as normal and building all the kick-ass wheels that have been booked in right up until the week of the Summer Solstice (a time I’ve always held a bit sacred). You’ll be able to find me on my stand at the York Rally that weekend before I close for 4 weeks 20th June onward.
Why a sabbatical I hear you ask? There are several reasons but in short I need a break! CV19 was a tough time to be in the bike industry, regretfully we had to say goodbye to two staff members at the end of 2021. Returning the wheelbuilding side of things to it’s original roots isn’t without it’s plus’s but I’ll be MUCH better able to serve customers and achieve my vision for the business when fully rested.
My own personal landscape is changing too; as of a couple of weeks ago this is now officially a Queer Owned Business; out and proud baby!!! It’s only taken me 37 odd years and a lot of growth to realise this and gift myself that label. I REALLY look forward to writing more about this and using my space within the industry to support others / talk about issues close to my heart, but for now, this is time for me to take stock, gift myself the self care I need, and come back stronger with the same quality fatigue life as a pair of high end, custom handbuilt wheels ;-).
How The Sabbatical Affects YOU!
- If you’re an existing customer with wheels or a service slot already booked in and paid for then fear not! All existing orders will be completed and shipped before I’m away.
- Spoke Sales to the trade and public remain completely unaffected; keep ordering your custom cut spokes here!
- If you’re looking for some of the finest handbuilt hoops for your steed any time BEFORE 18th July then I’m pleased to introduce you to my former apprentice Joey at Strongheart WheelWorks! Working to the same tolerances, tooling and techniques as me, I’m thrilled to support Joey as she hangs up her own professional shingle. Rock on!
- Any orders placed through the SHOP for my range of Riders Choice Wheelsets will be fast tracked to the front of the queue from 18th July onward.
- Also keep a look out for my announcement of Ready to Roll STOCK WHEELSETS available for immediate purchase and shipping during this period.
- Enquiries for FULL CUSTOM BUILDS are still welcome via the contact page. These will be booked in on a first come first served basis after Riders Choice Wheelsets and I will be answering emails a couple of times a week whilst away; perfect if you’re keen to get a pair of my bespoked wheelsets as soon as you can!
- I will not be available by phone between 20th June til 18th July.
- Service will resume in full from the 18th of July!
I’d like to thanks ALL customers past, present and future for being a part of this wonderful ride, it’s time for a break, and I look forward to seeing you all on the other side!
Peace, Love and Hub Grease,
Ryan@RyanBuildsWheels.
