digger

I have the opportunity to purchase;

an Xt wheelset (M775) for a little over $400.

or

a Mountain Sport MT65 wheelset for a little under $300.

Since I ride in very wet conditions, where water will go over the hub 2 or 3 times, I am concerned about the quality/number of seals on these wheels.

Having read the reviews for both (mtbr.com), I glean that the difference is mainly in the seals, the XT (M775) having a better seal system.

Looking at the exploded diagram for each (attached) I do not see any difference in the seals between these 2 wheelsets. The ONLY differences I see is a slightly differant locknut configuration on the non-drive side and 9 ball bearings (MT65) vs the 13 on the XT (M775).
mt65 diagram

m775 diagram

Is this the extent of $100 plus difference between these 2 wheelsets, just the ball bearings?

digger

Bump

reptilezs

aluminum or steel axle

jolly_ross

The difference between the M775 and the MT65 is 710-T. ; )



Perhaps there's a weight difference, or stiffness and strength of the spoke lacing. The diagrams certainly look very similar though. Will any seals really work when completely submerged do you think? I would have thought they'd only hold out for a brief time at best. There is a rotating component next to a soft seal in whatever design is used - water will always sneak through eventually.

digger

Ah, so comparing the more detailed specs I see:

The axles in both wheels are aluminum.
The hub body in each is steel.

BUT:
The MT65 has silver spoke nipples, the XT is red <shrug>.

The XT has butted spokes (2.0, 1.5, 2.0)
The MT65 also has butted spokes but (2.0, 1.8, 2.0) which (I think) accounts for the majority of the 119 gram difference in weight.

Yes, the diagrams show the XT has a centre lock disc and the MT65 as a 6 bolt disc, but the MT65 also comes in a centre lock for the same price (and no diagram is available).

So, for about $120 difference (a set of tires) in cost I see no difference in quality. But my concern is foremost the seals.

You're right jolly_ross, water gets in there eventually, but I don't want to have to regrease the hubs after every 2 or 3 rides.

I was hoping if someone more knowledgeable in wheels might have some insight as to any other differences.