Originally Posted by wphamilton

I can simplify that. Beyond a certain point - maybe Altus or Sora - the quality of components don't make any difference in the ride.

Shoddy components wear out or break easily, are difficult to adjust, and weigh more. Entry level drive trains generally give you fewer gears. Not a big deal for commuting and exercise.

At a minimum level, somewhere around the cheaper Bikes Direct bikes, the component qualities are all pretty much the same. They'll cut cost in some specific area: wheels, cheaper brakes, something is heavier, etc.