MEMPHIS, TN — For over a decade, Mike Hamm has been a mainstay of the Memphis cycling scene, known not just for his pace as a ride leader for the Memphis Hightailers Bicycle Club but for his meticulous eye for mechanical detail. Now, the veteran cyclist and former bike shop manager is focusing his ten-plus years of technical expertise into Hammbuilt Wheels, a custom wheel-building venture designed to solve a common problem for local riders: the limitations of stock, factory-made equipment.
The Science Behind the Spoke
Hamm’s philosophy centers on the idea that wheel building is a unique intersection of math, science, and art. While most modern bicycles come equipped with machine-built wheels designed for mass production, Hamm argues that these often sacrifice durability and weight for cost-effectiveness.
"Custom built wheels can be lighter, stronger, and faster than your original stock wheels," Hamm explains on the Hammbuilt Wheels About Page. By hand-tuning every component—including even spoke tension, optimized lacing patterns, and high-quality hub selection—Hamm creates wheelsets that significantly reduce rotational weight, allowing riders to accelerate more efficiently while maintaining a higher standard of structural integrity.
A Pillar of the Memphis Community
Hamm’s journey into specialized wheel building is deeply rooted in his history with the local cycling community. As a long-time employee at Bikes Plus and an active Memphis Hightailers member, he has spent years supporting riders at the start lines of major events. His commitment to the sport was further highlighted in 2021 when the community rallied around him following a serious accident, a testament to his standing among local athletes. Today, he uses that same community spirit to help fellow riders find the perfect gear for the Mid-South’s unique terrain.
Why Go Custom?
According to Hamm, the benefits of a hand-built wheelset extend beyond just speed:
- Precision Tuning: Unlike machines, a human builder can feel when a spoke is twisting rather than tightening, ensuring a more stable and longer-lasting build.
- Serviceability: Hammbuilt wheels use standard components, meaning that if a repair is ever needed on the road, most bike shops will have the necessary parts in stock.
- Tailored Performance: Whether a rider is looking for 50mm-deep carbon rims for road racing or bombproof 36-spoke builds for touring, every factor is tuned to the individual’s weight and riding style.
Get in Touch
Cyclists interested in a performance upgrade or a consultation on their next build can contact Mike Hamm directly through the following channels:
- Website: Hammbuilt Wheels Official Site
- Email: hammbuiltwheels@gmail.com
- Social Media: Follow his latest builds and process on Facebook or catch behind-the-scenes reels on Instagram.