Quick observation- Many new big name brands don't even come close to some from years ago. I laugh when coming across old Campy hubs that spin beautifully but appear to have NEVER been serviced. Grease crusted and nasty looking.

More so with Campy pedals. Whats not to love about them!

Just yesterday at a LBS, I happened to handle a brand new pair of Origin 8 pedals. Horrible bearings. I examined the next half dozen pair new in the packages.... same ROUGH, high friction bearings! Then, I checked out some Crank Bros. eggbeaters. Big draggers. What gives?

Continueing on my rant, had some errands to do and picked up a few groceries from the Wallymart. Smack at the entrance was a display of brand new bikes, clearance / sale from $49 to $79. Adult size bikes. Equipped of course with low-end Shimano shift groups, some with metal mudguards and chain guards. Aluminum frames and rims. The ATB type had suspension forks. Jeez... how in the world do they make money on this China made stuff?

(BTW: I don't know if the best, but I'm a fan of using Finish Line grease for all bike bearings. Seems to have a low viscosity for cold temps.)