Originally Posted by
Banzai
Near as I can tell, the freehub body on the XT is the exact same on the Deore. So are a great many of the parts. And, as mentioned, the weight is pretty much identical. It's the axle and the seals that differ.
I weigh 155, so I don't really know what gives.
The XT freebody is superior to the Deore and on the Deore hubs- Better seals are one reason but the other is stronger Flanges (The bit where the spoke attaches.)
I ride on XT hubs and have yet to wear one out or damage it. I know I replace my wheels every two years or so but that is because I have worn out the rim and several spokes will be damaged. I find it cheaper to Buy New XT wheels with Mavic Rims from my Wheel builder than to have a hub Re- rimmed.