Better is based on what you want. Like I said earlier, my two favorite bikes are extremely different in price. Yet, I still cannot get over some folks wanting to pooh on expensive bikes for what appears to be just the fact that they are expensive. If getting from A to B most efficiently is a main point of bikes, and it is for some, why aren't the pros riding these amazing $400 bikes? And, if the bike really makes no difference, why are the companies working so hard on even the smallest of details for their pros? All of which we eventually get access to.At my age, I do not want to struggle with an extra 5-10 pounds on my MTB. And, the new wheels on my SS, which cost as much as purchasing the bike, made it mor fun to ride. Yet, a whole lot of folks still cannot seem to love their own bikes, and this seems to bring out hatred toward others' bikes, especially if the hater cannot afford said bike at this time in their life. Boy, that tune changes when finances change, for many.