BNB

I'm about to launch into my second wheel build after building 2 tandem wheels (WI hubs, DT spokes, HED Belgium C2 rims). I have 2 HED Belgium rims and originally planned a similar build to the tandem wheels but I'm not keeping the bike long term and so looking for a much more affordable build. I'd like to get advice about the Bike Hub Store Superlight road hubs. Any issues with these? Should I change out the bearings for higher quality? They are a great price at $130 for the pair vs $450+ for White Industries. Thanks.

sch

Your tandem has 130mm rear triangle width? Most tandems are wider by at least 5mm, usually 10-15mm.
I would be concerned about the axle metallurgy at that price, especially in a tandem where combined weights
are never under 300# (riders+bike/etc) and may exceed #400. Just looked again: ALUMINUM axles seem
like a really bad idea on a tandem....

BNB

This second set of wheels is for my road bike. I weigh 110 lbs. (the first set I built for the tandem I used WI CLD hubs, 135 OLD rear, custom Rodriguez. We have well over 1000 miles on the bike without issue.) I really like the WI hubs but this single bike will be sold, I hope, in the next year but needs new wheels. Plus building wheels is really fun. Plus I have 2 hoops hanging in my garage looking for a bike.

dsaul

The BHS hubs are nice hubs. I wouldn't worry about changing out the bearings, they have high quality bearings in them already. You should also look at the higher end Novatec hubs for good quality inexpensive hubs.

bulldog1935

my daughter has a Hoops wheelset built on Kinlin rims with those hubs. Of course she's 125 lbs, but 3 years and they're as solid and free-spinning as ever.
I wouldn't hesitate to buy them.
I have an Open Pro wheelset built on Miche RG2 hubs, and they're a quality hub and great buy, as well.
(My other bikes are Phil and C-record)

Looigi

BHS hubs (made by Bitex) have been good for me. I'd recommend against using the absolute lightest weight hubs they have. I few more gms buys a lot more robustness.

sch

I would have no concern over such wheels as the OP describes for a rider weight in the 110# range on a singleton, I hope
next owner is also a flyweight

Bike Gremlin

For price/durability, as well as availability of both hubs and spare parts, Shimano MTB hubs are hard to beat. I wouldn't look any further.

BNB

Thanks for the reality checks and info. I'm buying the BSH superlight (not the lighter ultralight) in blue or red (so very hard to decide)! Fun and look forward to the build.