Best Inexpensive Hub?
06-11-15, 06:44 PM
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Best Inexpensive Hub?
Hello, I'm about to have a wheelset built, and was curious as to what people would suggest for the best choice for an inexpensive hub that can handle commuting and training miles.
Here's what I'm looking at:
Origin 8 Track Hubs - It is my understanding that these are Formulas
Some Somax Hubs
Surly Ultra New Hubs
From what I've read, it seems the Origin 8 is a solid choice. I also read that the Soma may be a better choice, however I wasn't able to find an explanation regarding why it may be the better choice. I've read multiple accounts of people having bearing issues with the Surly hubs, while others seem to have no issues.
If anyone can share any further info about these hubs, I'd appreciate it.
Here's what I'm looking at:
Origin 8 Track Hubs - It is my understanding that these are Formulas
Some Somax Hubs
Surly Ultra New Hubs
From what I've read, it seems the Origin 8 is a solid choice. I also read that the Soma may be a better choice, however I wasn't able to find an explanation regarding why it may be the better choice. I've read multiple accounts of people having bearing issues with the Surly hubs, while others seem to have no issues.
If anyone can share any further info about these hubs, I'd appreciate it.
Last edited by nob; 06-11-15 at 06:47 PM.
06-11-15, 09:06 PM
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Can't really beat Formula's for the price. Upon closer investigation, often the competition is simply re-branded Formula's anyway.
I really like Suzue Pro Max hubs which I think are better looking and not a ton more expensive but might not be any better technically.
Sometime you find wheels built with loose bearing Dura Ace hubs for a relative bargain.
After that you are into Pauls, Phil Woods etc...
I really like Suzue Pro Max hubs which I think are better looking and not a ton more expensive but might not be any better technically.
Sometime you find wheels built with loose bearing Dura Ace hubs for a relative bargain.
After that you are into Pauls, Phil Woods etc...
06-12-15, 01:27 AM
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06-12-15, 07:40 AM
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Miche
I bought a Miche Pista/Strada hub set for my new single-speed build. $110.
Pista/Strada Hubs | Miche Bike Components
Pista/Strada Hubs | Miche Bike Components
Last edited by davebarnes; 06-12-15 at 07:49 AM.
06-12-15, 07:46 AM
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formula/novatecs
i have thousands of miles on them in heat cold rain snow and i havent even needed to adjust them or do anything besides wipe the crap off the outside
mine are on a set of handbuilt wheels and no ragrets. not one letter.
i have thousands of miles on them in heat cold rain snow and i havent even needed to adjust them or do anything besides wipe the crap off the outside
mine are on a set of handbuilt wheels and no ragrets. not one letter.
06-12-15, 09:36 AM
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06-12-15, 09:51 AM
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I'd definitely recommend the sealed bearing Formula hubs too. I'm currently running some rebranded Formulas on my SS bike and while I don't have as many miles on mine as Mumonkan or ThermionicScott (~500 or so), I've had zero complaints/issues so far.
06-12-15, 10:12 AM
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I own the Soma Somax and the Surly Ultra New (rear hub only for both), and I have nothing but positive to say about the Surly, and a long list of bearing failures with the Soma. Most likely it is a problem axle chewing through the Soma's, but I have replaced the sealed bearings on it twice in probably 6000 ish miles of use.
06-12-15, 10:15 AM
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Where are you guys buying the Formula hubs**********????
I was looking for the TH-20 (low flange track front) a while back and could not find a source. Still can't.
I was looking for the TH-20 (low flange track front) a while back and could not find a source. Still can't.
06-12-15, 10:22 AM
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Ive got a set of wheels with Novatecs currently -- Couldnt be more happy with them. Don't have a lot of miles on them yet but workin on fixing that in the next year 
