Originally Posted by
Askel
I'd stick with Ultegra if I had it, but I'd never have it as I'd probably never shell out willingly for anything better than Deore/105. I've just never ever had a problem with those parts and regularly ride in the conditions you describe.
I much, much prefer cone and cup style bearings. The only time I've ever had problems that require actual parts replacement with hubs was on sealed bearing units.
I've got a 2200 on the rear of my touring/cyclocross/commuter/gravel road racing bike now and I've never even had to adjust the thing after 3 full seasons of use. With that kind of reliability, shelling out for even a 105 just seems silly to me.
I've been using a Tiagra for 2 years with no real issues, but in rebuilding and upgrading, I'm not sure how high I'm willing to step things up. The Ultegra will go on for a while, since I'm not shelling out the $$ for the new hub just yet. It's looking like the Phil is getting the vote so far, which is also a loose ball hub. I think the White Ind. is the only cartridge bearing hub on the list.
Originally Posted by
c_m_shooter
I voted Ultegra, but XT would be pretty good too. If you haven't used the Sun CR18's in 700c before, be warned to carry a few extra tire levers, because every tire I mounted on that rim was very tight.
Good to know about the CR18; thanks! Ever mounted a Pasela TG folding bead 32mm on one? How tough was it?