Originally Posted by Aidoneus

Let's see, big brick bookstores (B.Dalton, Waldenbooks, etc.) undercut local book shops and mostly drove them out of business; then Amazon.com undercut the brick bookstores, mostly driving them out of business. Did this hurt consumers? Sure, I always enjoyed browsing for hours in bookstores, and having a place where we could hold chess club, but I love getting substantial discounts at Amazon, too. Also, and just as important to me, I like the reviews--good and bad--for items that I am considering purchasing. So I vote yes, Shimano keep selling discounted parts through wholesellars for those who wish to do their own customization!