Originally Posted by
SactoDoug
If that is the real issue, then go with BD. There are videos on youtube that show how to adjust shifters.
The approval of my LBS is not worth the hundreds of dollars more I would spend on lower grade components.
To the OP, if you are the kind of guy that can change the oil and brake pads on your car, then assembling and adjusting a bicycle is not that hard. Just read up on them and watch youtube videos. Don't listen to the people who say it is hard. They probably never turned a wrench in their lives and wouldn't know the difference between a cresent wrench and an impact wrench.
If all else fails, read the instructions that came with the bike. All of the instructions for the components that came on the bike should be with it. Believe it or not, Shimano's instructions are not that hard to follow.
Yep I can rebuild a truck engine from the crank up, so I can't imagine there is much on a bike that is too complicated.
I don't have any doubts that I can assemble and tune the BD bike, or make adjustments as required. I suppose my reluctance with the BD bike is not being able to get a hands on impression before pulling the trigger. The pictures all look nice and the components are a grade or two better than a LBS at the same price.
Another reason for me to go to the LBS is to get a good 2nd opinion as to fit of the bike.
I don't imagine I will sell the bike so the resale value is not a big deal to me, but that was a good point that I hadn't thought of.
Anyway thanks to all for the advise - good, bad or indecipherable. I will post a picture when I get what ever I get and recount my experience either way.