[quote=Jim][quote=bikesdirect][quote=dmotoguy][quote=Jim]
What typically IS junk are headsets, straddles, seat posts, clamps, stems, etc. [/quote]
This should be bold/underlined. The bolts are the worst possible steel/al, they strip if you look at them funny. all of these parts should be replaced if possible… or just be careful w/ assembly and run it till it fails.[/quote]
This is one of the more silly statements I have read on forums in the last 5 years.
I have been spec’ing bikes for 25 years; and do not even know how anyone would request lower grade bolts.
Bikes we sell use Shimano, Sram, Ritchey, Mavic, WTB, Vuelta, Kalloy, Tektro etc components.
They are made in factories that make bikes for almost all other brands.
Quality and QC is exactly what you see on most bikes in shops.
Distribution cost is the major reason bikes and other things can be purchased online for less money.
Most people understand this.[/quote]
Sorry Mike, I’ve built several of your bikes in the shop, straight out of the box. Corners are cut, no matter how you explain it. Lots of stuff that should be “identical” to a Trek or whatever just isn’t.[/quote]
well, I just do not beleive that. But I have the advanage of knowing the factories; seeing the specs, and seeing bikes made at the factories: with all those brands right next to each other. In fact, on upper end bikes it would be easy to say other brands cut corners as they use lots of house brand stuff where we use Ritchey, Mavic, etc.
There is no QC difference in bikes we sell from main stream bikes sold in shops.
BTW, love your city and Kirby Lane is really the best place ever to great gingerbread pancakes – ummmm