Yup, my youngest son works as a BMW tech and he told me more than once that German engineering is tops. I work in electrical engineering and find the german stuff to be second to none also. Its just one of those traits that comes from that part of Europe. I agree that drops are overrated as there are other very good choices out there. Drops are still good for speed and performance applications just not the best choice for commuting or riding in the city. But, run what u brung I guess. LOL.