Originally Posted by
SteamingAlong
Surly bearings are made with low grade steel and are known for failing. When I upgraded my rims on my bike, my LBS suggested that I keep the old rims with the Surly hubs and just upgrade to Phil Woods bearings.
FWIW, my Surly front hub, while heavy, has never given me a problem and spins incredibly smoothly. Would I buy one again? Maybe not. Are they good hubs for the price? I believe so. I commute year round in all weather and they're still going strong.