Originally Posted by
ct-vt-trekker
Interesting that most here are recommending the M520 when on most other forums the consensus is the M540 is well worth the little increase in cost. Maybe tourist don't stress the gear as much or are just too cheap
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The M540 upgrades to better bearings , better seals for the bearings and the spindle is chromoly instead of plain steel so they last much longer than the M520s.
You can find the M540 on sale for less than $50. They are $41.99 at Nashbar right now.
interesting, when I got 520s five years ago, I didnt realize there was a hierarchy of bearings etc , and didnt really look around at other models. I see now that the 520s weigh 425g and the 540s are 352g. Had I known the better seals, bearings etc, and a bit lighter, I would have gone for the 540. I suspect my 23 year old shimanos must have had good material, I rode on them today and while easy to get out of (a plus actually for stop and go traffic, lights) they really do turn well still.
Like I have said before, will be intersting to see how long the 520s last.