Single Speed Disk Hubs and Wheels

seems conflicted

Not really. OP says "hubs like Hope Trial, Novatec", we are supposed to infer that he means Hope-like quality at a Novatec-like price.

To be honest, from my experience of both, the Novatec D256 gives Hope-like quality and by definition a Novatec-like price. What Hope brings to the table is better support if something does go wrong, and £100+ seems like a big insurance premium for that risk.

Buyer seems conflicted

Sure I am conflicted, thats why I am here.

we are supposed to infer that he means Hope-like quality at a Novatec-like price

Not nessessary, I do understand that you get what you pay for. Just wouldnt want a hub where this relationship is reverse.

What Hope brings to the table is better support if something does go wrong, and £100+ seems like a big insurance premium for that risk.

I might bring my budget up for exactly that reason.