JWK

Does anyone know what the hubs are like on the recent Formula hubs that come stock on Kona bikes? I'm talking about the thru axle sets 12x142mm and 12x100mm, that come on bikes like the Sutra, Rove, Libre, etc.

I'm looking at a 2022 Sutra and cannot find anything about these hubs, even whether they are cup & cone or sealed bearings. Whether they are junk, mediocre, etc.

Anyone have any info? Thanks.

veganbikes

Like all Formula hubs they are mediocre, usually if you see them they are fine enough but potentially other components might be near the same level. I don't recall if they are cup and cone or sealed bearing though and unfortunately don't have any bikes to check anymore but Formula is never a great hub but usually not total crap either. I wouldn't buy a bike or not buy a bike due to the hubs generally drivetrain, brakes, frame and fork yes but hubs usually not but generally if you get the right other components the hubs are decent enough.

FBinNY 

+1

I consider Formula to be dressed up components intended for OEMs to present a "better" spec without spending to do so.

Not saying they're crap, since OEMs couldn't accept that on a mid level bike they expect folks to actually ride. But, I wouldn't buy them as a replacement or upgrade on a bike I own.

Russ Roth

Can't speak to those exact ones since formula makes a variety and companies don't seem to list the exact hub part numbers. The recent ones I've gotten on an 1800.00 cannondale were cup and cone and fairly chunky and heavy. They spin ok though they did need some slight adjustment fairly quickly compared to other hubs. They were boost hubs so thru axle and probably about the same level as what you're looking at.

Andrew R Stewart 

I suspect that the bearings, regardless of the design, have a "seal" between the rolling elements and the wild outside.

Even low grade cup and cone bearings can last a long time, IF the rider takes more care to clean and lube them before their internal condition suffers from washed out and/or contaminated lube. But since most don't do this... Andy

FBinNY 

Don't overthink this. I gather you're shopping the bike vs. just the wheels. In that case, assume the wheels are roughly comparable to the frame and other components.

Consider that wheels generally get replaced/rebuilt a few times over the life of a bike that's well used. So, focus on the commonality of the dropouts, brake mounts and other critical points on the frame. Then, if all checks out, go ahead with the expectation that the hubs will outlast the wheel, and that you may upgrade if/when the need arises in a year or two (or more).