Originally Posted by
CommuteCommando
I'm looking at a carbon bike to reward myself for hitting 180# (a way to go yet)
http://www.masibikes.com/bikes/carbo...ione-apex-2012 . I like this one because of the 11-32 cassette on the
SRAM Apex, and my favorite LBS sells Masi and Surly. I live where it is pretty hilly, but by the time I hit 180# the lower gear may not be that big a deal, and I may go with the 105 with a 12-28. The reviews I have read give the Shimano a slight edge on overall quality.
Depending on which rear der you have, you might be able to use that SRAM cassette with a Shimano set-up. Most of my bikes have a Shimano derailleurs (front and back), and I use SRAM cassettes fairly often with no problems (many others do, too...). That 32 cog might be at the limit for some ders, but you will most likely be OK. Talk with your LBS about it when the time comes.
My thoughts on the different brands goes like this: They're all great, but Campy is above my pay grade and the difference between SRAM and Shimano are close-enough in quality at the levels I purchase that I tend to go with the brand that I am sure that any bike shop will likely have in stock... Shimano.