On a road bike, can I lace a 20 hole rim to a 32 hole hub?

Question

Talking about rear wheels here. I have a Powertap Pro, with 32 holes, and I would like to put it in a Spinergy Stealth SS rim, which has 20 holes. Is this possible to do? Also, any idea how much a bike shop would generally charge for such a re-build if it is possible?

Answer 1

Hmm, one has 20 holes, the other has 32, so since those numbers aren't the same NO, YOU CAN'T.

Rims and hubs MUST match their holes, and there is NO compromise.  You're serious enough to put a power meter on your bike but you couldn't figure that out?  Sounds like someone with more money than sense...

Answer 2

As the 1st answer states no you can't. Keep that nice Spinergy wheel as is. As far as the build I'd say $40 for labor plus spokes and rim. It should be less than $150 total.

Answer 3

As a Barnett Certified Bike tech, I would not lace this wheel for you. The hub and rim are made specifically for the count of spokes it has and the structural integrity that they have is too far off. I would be scared to ride it myself to be honest. Find a 32 hole rim (standard spacing i.e. no paired spokes) and get that laced to it.

To build a wheel from scratch, I charge between $40-60 plus spokes but you shop may charge something different depending on where you live. Good luck and be careful with wheels, those keep you on the road at 30MPH! I wouldn't mess with it.