Originally Posted by
rpenmanparker
Well you see a much broader sample than the individual user does so your observation is very valuable. I really like the Red and also the Rival. I HAVE broken a Red shifter, but then Ultegras have failed on me too over the years. I just try to enjoy the stuff and not worry about the longevity. I have never been one of those who think the components owe me a lifetime of service. As long as everyone is happy with their own stuff, it is all good.
I rail about how bad SRAM road stuff is, but it's just because of the much higher failure rate I have seen. Everything breaks sometimes, but it's very seldom from JRA with Shimano or Campagnolo. I do prefer the silent smoooothness of Shimano, but they all function well.
SRAM/Avid hydraulic brakes work very well, but have so many past issues that I would treat them like Ebola.