Originally Posted by
HillRider
That may indeed be correct. At least from UK suppliers, the cost difference between grades is very small, like $2 between 105 and Ultegra.
Even from US suppliers a Dura-Ace level bottom bracket is only $30. Of course, bottom brackets, like hubs, are something that people buy Shimano for if they're happy with the low end/cheap stuff. For the record all my bikes have shimano hubs, and my road bike has a 105/Ultegra level BB, in case that statement offends!