Valbrona wrote:I had some wheels from Taiwan with Novatec hubs. After more than 30 years of messing around with good quality kit and working for an OEM, they seemed quite good. And they certainly seemed well adjusted. However, after only 300-400 miles the rear hub bearings are showing signs of roughness and notching.
Is this normal for Novatec hubs? Is it really a case of 'you get what you deserve if you buy cheap Taiwanese stuff'?
And please do not suggest that I contact the company because they do not respond to end-user enquiries. It is company policy; that is the only way I can describe their no response to queries.
Thanks folks.
It really depends on the quality of the bearing and the tolerance of the hub shell.
Joytech can source China-low grade bearings for many of the OEM customers who want to target a low price point.
As an OEM, you can also opt for high grade Japanese or even Enduro Abec5 bearings in these hubs.
I think you might be surprised to discover how many brands Joytech (Novatech) make hubs for and unlike a brand like Chris King, who ONLY do high end everything, Joytech is willing and able to make everything from department store hubs to exceptionally precise, low degree engagement high end BMX, DH, and USA-aftermarket brands' hubs.
-SD