Originally Posted by elad
Hi,
I have a few questions regarding a commuting bike for long distances.
I would like to build a bike for long distance commuting and long hours on the bike,
My priorities are not on speed and flashy looks any more( I am 37 getting old) However I am very interested in the durability of components. Does any one have inside information regarding the longest lasting components. Basically I will take a nice steel frame with a rigid fork (kona or kelly) and build it up with mountain bike parts and thin tires.My question is are xtr hubs and cranks going to be more durable than Lx or xt. Which cranks and hubs will last the longest and be the most reliable? DO I really need chris King Hubs and carbon cranks or will the lower end cranks hold up - do the higher priced parts really last longer?
I would appreciate any feedback,
Thanks
I will try and answer your question as no one else has, they have only given you their opinion as to what you should do and use (i.e. buy a cheap bike for commuting). I know where you're coming from, if you have the money to spend you want to spend wisely on the best stuff for the job.
Cranks: I have used both XT and the newer LX Holllowtech and they both seem to hold up well if kept clean, I think the LX has worn beter than the XT. I would not bother with the XTR, this is much better suited to off road racing where it is unbeatable.
Hubs: The key here is the sealing of the bearings. The last hubs I got for my commuter were LX and as soon as I got them I took the seals off and loaded them with grease, this has helped them stay smooth and keep out a lot of crap. Whatever you do never buy Deore hubs as they are useless. Being a Brit I would recommend Hope as I have a lot of freinds who have used these for years without problem. As for the American manufacturers I could only recommend Chris King from my own knowledge of hubs.
My one bit of advice to you whatever you decide is spend some cash each pay day and keep stocked up with cleaner and lube.
Happy commuting.