Originally Posted by
Mondoman
In my area, there are shops that also sell used components. Since it sounds like you're very price-sensitive on this build, why not see if you can pick up a pair of still-good Deore or better used rim-brake hubs? Overhauling them with all new ball bearings shouldn't cost very much. At my favorite local shop, you can pick up a decent used Shimano rim brake hub for $5-15.
I may go this route, I've replaced bearings before and there is a shop near my house with lots of used parts. My worry about doing this is that I just don't know how thrilled they would be about me opening the hubs up in the shop to see if the cone surfaces are pitted. It seems like I'd be better off with some low quality hubs in new condition, than some good quality hubs that have been around the block a few million times. Thoughts on this?