Hubs - Hope Pro II v Hope XC

Ticaboy

Currently run Shimano Deore Hubs on WTB Speed Disc Rims. Front Hub is fine (bearings nice n shiney etc), rim is alright-ish. But the rear hub, non-drive side is buggered (race is scored and the bearings are rough and dirty). Rear rim is also very worn, even LBS have struggled to get it true again. Looking on Merlin website for new wheelset, but have a couple of hub questions:

Firstly; I really like the idea of sealed cartridge bearings in the Hope hubs, but want to know if it really worth the extra over the Shimano stuff? I can get direct replacement hub for £20, but unsure about the longevity of cone/race bearings. Are cartridges vastly better?

Secondly; if I do go the Hope route, is the extra ££ for the Pro II over the XC worth it? I ride mainly XC, but have started to go to various MTB centres and having a go at more technical routes, so perhaps very lightweight isn't the route to go?

So, any feedback is appreciated.

The Big Cheese

I have Hope XC hubs and they are just fine - not sure what the difference in price is though..

supersonic

Pros are a little more expensive. the cartridge vs cup cone debate will roll on for ever, but the quality of said parts makes a difference. XT and XTR are quite a bit better than Deore, and I would say XTR is better than Hope. Cup and cone are an angular system and can handle both radial and thrust loads better, plus the sealing tends to be better, they last longer and they have less drag. Maybe not Deore, but certainly XTR! They are lighter too, and have a better freehub.

Sir HC

I have a set of XT hubs on XM719 wheels for 18months now, hubs still spinning as smooth as day one, rear rim has a slight woble from a few weeks back. Built by crc too.

CRC's wheel builds have come on a lot. Stif and Merlin are very good though