Cup and cone systems – advantages

The principal advantage of a cup-and-cone hub bearing system when compared to a cartridge system is that it is serviceable. When a cartridge bearing has worn out, it must be thrown away and replaced. This, however, is a simple process and so not altogether a bad thing.

Additionally, the absence of a race from a cup and cone system frees up space for more bearings, which can move freely, placing more surface area in contact with the cup and spreading the load more effectively. Because the bearings are free to move in any direction, they can do so regardless of the trajectory of the wheel.