Thanks for the reply about the White Hubs . . . it seems there isn't a perfect solution . I've never had a cartridge hub bearing go bad . . and if it did . . . it is still ridable. I just don't trust a cup/cone hub like a Shimano XT as if the races fail . . .you're screwed. I know many people use them, but they're not for me. I don't build my own wheels, not do I like tinkering with them. Once you get a set built by a master wheelbuilder, there's no going back. I'd love to pay $300 less for a set of wheels, but I always think long term. Then again, the price difference is so great I can get two rear wheels built with XT hubs for the price of one with White or Phil. Ouch.

This is my first foray into cassette hubs . . .and I'm not liking what I see really . The Whites will probably do me okay, as I don't need a field serviceable hub. The adjustment with a 2mm wrench seems a little odd though. . . but from what I hear they stand behind their products pretty well.