After riding for some time, owning a few different bikes, and hanging-around BF for a while with all the gear talk, I am wondering what exactly bike companies are?
I consider myself a Specialized guy after buying my present bike, which you can see in my signature. I bought it because I had a Specialized Rockhopper and really enjoyed it and thought it was a good value.
But, it seems to me that bike companies, Specialized, Cannondale, Trek, etc. just design frames and have them manufactured overseas. All the components, derailleurs, wheels, headsets, cranks, etc., are from other specialty companies.
So, if I get a Specialized, does that mean I am just buying a Specialized-designed frame, with alot of Shimano and FSA?
Does the brand-loyalty just stem from which name on the frame you like, or how a bike rides, or some other emotional response.
Just curious and interested in your opinions.
Thanks.

Slackerprince