ChrisM2097

I've recently learned how to build wheels, and would like to build some nice strong ones that'll support my weight. Currently, I'm 289lb (down from 303 three weeks ago), 6'2" tall.

I've recently started riding much more than I used to, and I'm braking spokes, bending rims, and it seems as if I'm even wearing out rear hubs. Listen to my hub in this video - it only makes noise when coasting, or backpeddling when the wheel is in a certain position. You'll notice the noise goes away at 26 seconds when I turn the wheel 1/4 turn or so.

The bike and current wheels are stock 2007 Specialized Rockhopper Disc.

Anyways, I've been eying the WTB Laserdisc Freeride or Downhill wheels, due to their strength...but I want to match them to some strong hubs that aren't going to cost an arm and a leg. Can you guys (or gals) make any recommendations? I'll probably be going with 32 or 36 spoke. Obviously, these are going to be heavy wheels - but I don't care...I just don't want the wheel failing on me 10+ miles into a ride.

IAmCosmo

It's hard to find hubs that are both strong and cheap.

If it were me, I'd use some Chris King hubs. However, while they will satisfy your "strong" requirement, they certainly won't satisfy your "cheap" requirement.

But, if you are building some wheels, I'm assuming you are planning on them lasting a long time, so it would probably be worth the investment.

I've also heard good things about Industry 9 hubs, but I don't have any personal experience with them.

CliftonGK1

I've built wheels up around a bunch of hubs, from super cheap to moderate price, and I've not seen an issue with even the cheaper ones making noise. If you're only having issues when coasting, etc. then it sounds like the problem is with the freehub bearings rather than the hub bearings. I didn't get to listen to the video (at work) but you might be able to rebuild the freehub body and fix the noise.

ChrisM2097

Thanks for the reply.

They don't necessarily need to be cheap...under $100 would be preferable. I know Chris King makes great components, I just can't justify $350 on a single hub for a bike I paid only $300 for. I may change my mind eventually, but for now, I need to focus on the lower-end.

I'm not looking for super lightweight. A heavier hub is fine with me. I don't need super smooth, either. I just want something durable for the time being.

ChrisM2097

I started thinking along the same lines. It's not the noise that bothers me, it's the fact that something isn't working right, and I don't want it to break down several miles into a ride. I've never rebuilt a freehub, but I guess there's a first time for everything.

jgsatl

not much to it. i replaced on my deore hub after about 5 years of use.