Originally Posted by
Bathwater
Compare apples to apples here:
Fuji Bikes | ROAD | COMPETITON SERIES | ALTAMIRA 2.7
When looking at entry level-carbon, the specs are similar. The Fuji has all the same 5800 stuff with the exception of the chain, but comes with Shimano brakes rather than the proprietary Axis brakes.
I've got no dog in this fight, but it's disingenuous to claim certain companies are worse when it comes to mixing groupsets. All companies do it and try to shave costs by using in-house components. That being said, If I were paying full price for entry level carbon, I would go with Felt's F5 for sure. Almost full 5800 groupset (with the exception of the brakes, which are Shmano), comes with a decent name brand saddle, and the frame rides very, very well.
If you look back at what I said... I was talking about my Fuji that was at the $2k mark and had very few components at the advertised level so I figured a lower price point would be even worse, that's all. I also said that if for nothing else, Trek will be easier to sell and sell for a higher percentage of original purchase price. Ebay/craigslist/etc speak for themselves. I've had brands like Fuji and brands like Trek/Specialized. My experience has confirmed that the name brands are easier to sell. Just telling the new guy that you get what you pay for and Fuji isn't cheaper because they feel like being nice, dunno how that could even be argued with.