[XSImatrix]

hey, i had the same problem a while ago and i learned that if their arents any shortcuts, use polymodelling. You have already learned that technique through modelling cars, just apply it here. What I would do it split up the rim to what section i only need to model.

In this case 5 Spokes/360 Degree Rim
=72 degrees.

Plus you want symmetrical spokes, so 72/2
=36 degrees.

So move your plane with the bitmap applied so that it is centred, (not 0'0'0, but centred so that the middle of the axle orr.... how i did, the little bolts that run along the rim just outside of the axle hole, align your vertical axi with that.)

create your guides with rotation/move pivots at 0'0'0. (i would make on verticle, copy it and rotate copy 32 degrees.

Modelling rim, startanywhere, it doesnt matter since your gonna have to model everything, So make a plane and adjust verts. Start in a 2d form, dont add depth untill you have a flat rim. then start adding chamfers and dragging vertices/polyrown back.

hope i could help.