Cam, for me the upside of cartridge bearings is I don't need to replace the hub (and wheel relace) if the bearing race gets pitted. This is why I moved away from Shimano hubs 20+ years ago and have never looked back. Admittedly my hamfistedness has decreased in those 20+ years but I don't see a reason to ditch my Hope hubs which are simple and are forward, backwards and sideways compatible. It will be interesting to hear Shimanos comments on their use or cup / cone bearings.
Feb. 20, 2020, 4:15 a.m. - fartymarty
Cam, for me the upside of cartridge bearings is I don't need to replace the hub (and wheel relace) if the bearing race gets pitted. This is why I moved away from Shimano hubs 20+ years ago and have never looked back. Admittedly my hamfistedness has decreased in those 20+ years but I don't see a reason to ditch my Hope hubs which are simple and are forward, backwards and sideways compatible. It will be interesting to hear Shimanos comments on their use or cup / cone bearings.