I would never go below Ultegra on a high end frame and I really don't get any of this. That being said, I am really very impressed with the Ultegra 6700 stuff on my new Scott, I've been riding only Dura Ace for 20 years. No compromise in quality, function or appearance in the new Ultegra group. A few grams heavier perhaps. But 6700 appears to deliver maximum value in a mid priced group.