Shimano Deore M525 Disc Hub

Bikes & Gear

Gear Browser

Shimano Deore M525 Disc Hub

BikeRadar verdict

4.5 out of 5 stars

"Heavy, but incredibly durable – strength at a low price "

Bikeradar Review
Manufacturers description
User reviews
1 of 5 stars

2 comments

Mon 19 Nov 2007, 12:59 pm GMTBy BikeRadar

Shopping partners

The ubiquitous centrepiece of countless complete bike wheels, Shimano's workhorse hub is the ultimate low cost, high mileage unit.

It's due a replacement relatively soon, but the tireless durability of this mid-level lump demands a lifetime service award. The bigger rubber external seals protect the internal ones and even sets we've run for years contain unsullied green grease inside.

Unlike most hubs, the bearings are the old fashioned, user adjustable 'cup and cone' type rather than disposable cartridge bearing versions. With a bit of servicing, lifespans are almost indefinite even in the worst conditions. The chunky body and silent running steel freehub are tough enough to take even jump duty, too. Complete Deore based M:Wheel sets are also available.

On the downside they are particularly heavy, which might frighten off race types, and they're QR only, but otherwise they're impossible to fault for the money. New XT hubs look set to deliver the same superb longevity in a much lighter format, too, but unfortunately they weren't ready in time for us to be able to do anything more than initial testing. Watch this space, though.

What's the score with BikeRadar reviews? You can find a full explanation of our ratings here.

User Reviews

There are 2 reviews on this post

Showing 1 - 2 of 2 comments

Steelkof

Posted Tue 13 Apr, 7:53 pm BST Flag as inappropriate

Rated 1 out of 5 stars

Didnt even last a year and I ride only weekends!
Never again!
npowell28

Posted Wed 28 Apr, 12:41 pm BST Flag as inappropriate

Rated 1 out of 5 stars

Not sure where the Low Maintanance work horse bit came from. I've only had mine a year. I'm onto the second set of bearings already. The race faces are really pitted and they are forever loosening off despite ensuring that they are super tight when put back together. Thumbs down from me.