Originally Posted by
Andy_K
Occam's Razor: All else being equal, the simplest solution is the correct one.
You really aren't going to notice much difference, if any at all, between XTR and Deore shifting. If you ride the bike in all weather, the nicer finish of the higher end parts won't matter. Some parts have to be replaced regularly and so it makes sense to use the parts that have the best durability to cost ratio.
I haven't used XTR. I have used Deore and Deore XT. I think the M590 Deore components shift as well as XT. It's quality stuff.
Yeah, I understand building to a price point, but the lower end stuff is heavier at least. I haven't felt the difference between Deore, XT and XTR, but the XTR is at the barest price point I could get myself to accept, to be honest.
If I had more funds, I'd go with higher yet, like SRAM red or something. But that would be greatly diminishing returns to strive for.
Durability to cost, yes. Cost to efficacy, yes. Too much of a perfectionist though.