Wheel tension - help

How much of a pain in the arse is it for a wheelbuilder to tension up a wheel (Ambrosio Excellight rims to 32h pmp hubs)? The reason I ask is that I have just asked my LBS to rebuild my wheels after an open pro rim failed. When I took them out for the first time over the weekend, I noticed more flex than I would like when climbing out of the saddle.

The wheels are perfectly true, but the spokes do not feel under a great deal of tension - so I put this down to tension.

I don't want to upset the builder, as he is a mate (and while he is a great mechanic, I have no idea how experienced a wheel builder he is).

So, should I take them back, and ask him to sort; or take them elsewhere (and if so where - SW London)?

Its very easy, if you think you may upset him by asking then i'm sure someon on here can tension them up for a beer or two.

If it's easy, I'll just go and ask him - thank you.

If it's easy, I'll just go and ask him - thank you.

all it will need is an extra 1 or 2 turns on each spoke, for a decent mechanic, i reckon 30 mins max! but i'm sure it could be done in less time then that.

Should be no probs

you can check the tension with a special gauge too

Just pop down and said "hey mate, the wheels feel a bit flexy for my liking, can you able to tighten the spokes a bit more to stiffen it please?"

I don't think you'd upset him when asking to 'stiffen' the wheel.

Just ask for a bit more tension. Producing a good set of handmade wheels, requires input from the rider anyway (IMHO).

Thanks all for the input - I will be popping in for a cup of tea and a chat shortly with wheels in hand. Was worried that I was being overly fussy! It would appear not.

Go over to your mates, wheel in hand and smash it over his face until the wheel is so bent he is forced to buy you a whole new one. Talking never works...