Touring - Wheel build with disc hub, strength issues?

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superslomo
08-14-07, 02:04 PM
I want to have a rear wheel built up, and am not planning on running a disc brake with the wheels. One place I called to get a price quote only had the disc version of the XT hub, and I was wondering what if any strength difference there might be with the disc versus the regular XT (non-disc) hub.

Is the wheel going to be as stiff with the disc hub? Are there any reasons to avoid building with this option?

Nigeyy
08-14-07, 02:12 PM
I have disc wheels and have used them fully loaded for touring. I don't think you'll have strength issues assuming they are decent rims and have a decent build. FYI, I have a 36 spoke count, which I'd recommend for touring given a choice of 32 or 36 hole rims.

Having said that, aren't XT disc hubs more expensive than non-disc hubs? And if you aren't going to discs, why bother with the added expense of disc hubs? If you have the time, shop around and get the non-disc XT hub -or at least buy one yourself and then give it to the LBS to build up (after all, you did say they didn't have one).

Better still, learn how to build your own wheelset and buy the components for less online and build your own.
superslomo
08-14-07, 02:39 PM
The price was best for the build at excel sports. FWIW, I have a touring wheelset, and was looking to these for more typical rides around town. I already have a machine built front wheel, but getting a more pure road non-touring wheel for 135 mm spacing on the rear means having to get it made to measure.

I don't know that I have it in me to learn to build wheels... not sure I'm sufficiently frustration tolerant.