Thread: Components
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Old 09-15-08, 06:32 AM
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maddmaxx 
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Bikes: Diamondback Clarity II frame homebuilt.

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It is about a normal component fit for a Specialized bike. Most entry to mid level bicycles from the LBS brands like Specialized, Trek, Giant or GT etc are going to have a similar fit. To hold down costs, they are going to use Tektro built brakes, less expensive wheels and chains. The stem, bars, seatpost stuff is going to be house brand..........ie factory badged parts made by this seasons factory of choice. All of it works. Typical upgrades (as BD says, "after you wear out the originals") will consist of better brake pads, perhaps better wheels, better cables and a better chain.

In almost all cases, more expensive parts are just lighter. If the brake arms don't bend or flex and if the return springs are ok, then weight and the choice of brake pad installed is about the only detectable difference to the average rider.

The bicycle industry has changed over the last few years. The Tiawan factories are general purpose machine shops that can make almost any part better or cheaper than anyone else. Because of this, the manufacturers buy their parts there. The parts can come with a badge or not. Some factories specialize in certain types of parts (Tektro for example is the house name for a factory complex that builds most of the brakes sold on bikes.) Some of their brakes have the Shimano label, Some are Specialized, many have no label at all. Some are very "inexpensive" and some are very trick full race parts suitable for the highest level of racing. Other factories make frames, gears, chains, carbon fiber parts etc. Each will make any design you give them.

Politically, its interesting to see that many Tiawan factories have slowing business as their owners invest more heavily in mainland China locations. (I know, it appears that the two governments don't like each other, but business is business) Brand names like Tektro come and go and change to other names depending on the marketing and importer presently in favor.

Bottom line, buy the bike that you like and can afford. It can all be improved on or repaired with better parts in the future as the originals wear out.
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