Geoff,
I haven't been around the boards for very long, so I don't know who is bashing the chinese brands. No howls of reproach here, but I just want to say that my Trek has been a great bike. Aside from this problem, I've had nothing but great luck with it & it has completely changed my commute.
I have nothing against the cheap chinese bikes, I'm all for whatever gets people riding. I just want to point out that, even with my one issue, the Trek/Bionx combo has been amazing & I would recommend it to anyone.