Originally Posted by
ShortLegCyclist
BikesDirect frames are made by Kinesis, not Merida.
At least this quarter.
Business models of this nature (almost always) have a contract that allows the seller to take their mfg business where ever they choose with some stated cancellation period. Sometimes business goes to the lowest bidder; often dictated as a necessity - given the price point the seller requires to achieve an acceptable profit margin and ROI.
This business model works in our industry (bikes) because the frame necessary to support the majority of riders is so 'over-engineered' with moderate weight materials (steel, Al, thicker/heavier CF) that frame reliability can be well within an acceptable business liability risk. The manufacturing process is not rocket science and in volume is quite cheap. This is why there are semi-automated 'mega-factories' producing many companies frames. Hopefully, the inline manufacturing QA checks catch the defects as they occur and immediate corrective feedback is implemented; otherwise, you produce a bunch of bad frames that have to be caught at the Final QA.
Contrast the above process with a craftsman selecting materials and producing frames and QA'ing every step as he/she goes - likely with a precision tool (something not found on most assembly lines). Then, adding quality components that will perform well (as in "if your life depended on it" quality) and last much longer. And finish off with a Pro-Level build so everything works perfectly and should not need any adjustments (including cable stretch) for a year. This business model does NOT meet the BD (and others) price-point.
Both business models produce a bike at a price-point. Value is derived from one's personal perspective as to how much money to spend on this object to satisfy your needs. If inexpensive is a top priority, or maybe the cycling needs are minimal then choose an assembly line frame for value. There is little chance it will fail you, if maintained. And inexpensive replacement components are available. If one is driven by priorities other than price, the choices and the number of available bicycles expands greatly. The VALUE becomes the QUALITY.
With apologies for Lecture Mode. Now I'll go ride.