Originally Posted by
Nicodemus
more reliable components, stronger wheels don't require truing so much, shifting is more reliable and consistent, ride is generally more enjoyable, etc.
Same as with everything (food, stereo equipment, cars), going up from the bottom end there is a noticeable difference. From there onwards is the usual law of diminishing returns.
sub-$100 is barf,
$400-$1500 is mid-range,
and from there on you wander into unobtanium territory
I think it's more like this:
sub $400 is of questionable durability and function, you're better off buying used
$400-$1000 shows promise, but choose carefully
$1000-$1500 has great durability and function
$1500+ is you treating yourself to a nice ride
Unobtanium is Sachs and Vanilla, 'cause there's a multi-year waiting list