"Other Brand" Thread
 

Ok, we all know about Shimano and Campy, etc. But what are some of your favorite "other-brand" parts. Some gems that newbies like me might not know about. For instance, i was shopping online for wheels and after comparing prices for the standards someone pointed me to Van Dessel as an alternative. I've ordered two since then. :) I'm in the market for cranks for my fixie project and I'm looking at some alternatives such as BMX cranks. But, I don't know the brands so I don't know whats any good.

Just thought people out there might have some favorites other-brands that could use some extra plugging. :)

Vincent

Personally my other brand is FSA. Head and shoulders above the competition for the big 3. Cheap, strong and fairly light. Imo almost unbeatable for pure value.

The only other company I stand by is Thomson. Best seatposts around :)

My new bike I'm ordering has a TruVativ crank. I did some googling and from what I've read they make very nice cranks. Also for cassetes and chains SRAM is good stuff.

Profile with a 'euro bb' for a great bmx crank for that fixie, its the bmx industry standard and if you think you can break it, there's a beefier version!!!
Shimano DX cogs are worth their weight in gold for cheap single speed build ups.
Diacomp 990 brakes are the standard for bmx as well.
S&M platform pedals, lifetime warranty, you break them or somewhat damage them they'll replace them, no bones about it!!!
One last thing, there are some BEEFY bmx chains out there, some could probably be run on a motorcycle, something for single speed and fixed off roaders to consider if the local single track has alot of logs that seem to eat up chainrings and chains!!!

Thanks :D

Maxxis great tires for what ever kind of cycling you do.

Yes truvativ is awesome stuff.

For older used components, SunTour makes some nice derailers....I still cant believe how smooth my set of 4050 "Edge" componentes are. Pity the SunTour that's around now is not the same one :*(