I have an add on question about Dura Ace 7700 (9 speed) hubs. Do these run forever or what? I have a wheelset that has ~13,000 miles on them. The rear wheel is on the 3rd rim. I have yet to “repack” the bearings. They’ve always rolled like butter so I have always procrastinated taking the axles out and repacking the bearings. I’ve ridden in the rain a moderate amount over the years BTW.

For the purpose of this thread, I will add my experience with my older Dura Ace 7400 hubs. YES, it is beneficial to set them up ever so slightly “loose” as far as the preload on the cones is concerned. It is very satisfying to know that you have them dialed just right for your frame - no play whatsoever yet free spinning with no resistance.