Shimano Ultegra HB-6500

Bike Setup:
Bianchi Ultegra 9spd

Summary:
This is probally the best hub made for the money, and I can't believe some guy could only give them 3 stars due to the "wealth of aftermarket hubs". Most Aftermarket hubs cost 4 to 5 times as much as the Ultegras and the only advantage they have is less weight and less maintence in that they have cartridge bearing and don't require semianual repacking. The ultegras are bomb proof, mine have over 15,000 miles on them and are as smooth as the day I bought them. I ride them in all types of weather and have found the seals do a great job of keeping contaminats out. Bottom line is as long as you keep these greased and adjusted right they will last for a very long time.

Strengths:
Durable, smooth, good value

Weaknesses:
None really, I guess a little heavy if you want to get picky and require more maintence than cartridge bearing hubs.

Similar Products Used:
Mavic 571/2, Campy Nouvo Record, Ofmega, Sachs

Favorite Ride:
From my house to Fulsher

Bike Setup:
Stock Cannondale R1000

Summary:
Good value to build up a wheelset that can be thrashed around and not worried about. But with the wealth of aftermarket hubs, I can only give these a 3 maybe 3.5 stars.

Strengths:
Good value and no-nonsense component.

Weaknesses:
Doesn't look as nice as the aftermarket and wheelset hubs. Perhaps a little heavy and low-tech bearings.

Similar Products Used:
none

Favorite Ride:
Hill Country

Bike Setup:
1999 Airborne Zeppelin, Dura Ace and Ultegra mix

Summary:
I am just using the rear hub and it functions quite well and looks good. There really isn't anything to complain about, you get most of the bang of Dura Ace for fewer bucks, which is a pretty good deal. To be fair, I also used an American Classic front hub on two of my bikes and I think they are both smoother and lighter than the Ultegra, but the Ultegra rear hub is an excellent choice.

Strengths:
Cost and function

Weaknesses:
Could be lighter

Similar Products Used:
Hugi (?) on Rolf Vector Pros