High end equipment

[mike killay]

Exactly what is it that distinguishes expensive high end equipment from the bottom end of the market?
I used a SIS derailleur for 20 years with no problems and it changed just as sweetly at the end as at the beginning.
What is so good about really expensive derailleurs?
True, I had to replace the cheap disc brake actuators with Avid BB7 for far better performance, but the only real difference was that the Avids had wobbly washers and so allowed the disc pads to square up properly to the disc face. But the Avids were not expensive, and holding the two in my hand, there was no quality difference to see, just the washers.
As for saddles, don't get me started. After a delicate operation I am particularly horrified by the top end narrow, unsprung offerings and find far better seating at the lower end of the market.
Could it be that these high end products are aimed at the racing fraternity and the secret is weight reduction? Obviously not so important on an electric bike

 

[Deleted member 4366]

Expensive air forks and rear suspension are much more comfortable. Decent hydraulic brakes also make a big difference, but I can't see the advantage of an expensive stem or headset. Decent gears can make a difference. It's really nice feeling the precision as you snick up and down a set of Shimano Deore XT. Do you need it all? No. Is it better? Yes. Is it worth it? Splunge! I think that the best policy is to upgrade the things that annoy you, like clattering forks, creaking cranks and rim brakes.

 

[flecc]

Some of the cheaper options can be worse. For example, Shimano's Cadet series multi-sprocket freewheels are rather coarse in both changing gear and running. They work, but one's ears betray a not exactly sweet operation.