OSAKA (BRAIN) — Sales in Shimano's bike-product division were down 12.3% through the first nine months of the year, compared to the same period last year. The weaker dollar relative to Asian currencies impacted Shimano's net income results and the company revised down its net income forecasts for the year because of the exchange rates. The company is sticking with its previous guidance for sales and operating income. Shimano said bicycle-product inventory held by retailers "started to show signs of progress. However, market inventories of completed bicycles remained high."
I agree completely. I’ve had lower-end Shimano components on my vintage bikes that are still working just fine 30 years later. And even the mid-range 105 components are still very affordable.
Same for non-vintage. I have some RapidFire Alivio from the 2000s on an aluminum low end MTB. Works as good as new today.
I haven’t used Cues/LINKGLIDE, but I’m very excited by its existence. A groupset dedicated to being bomb-proof and cheap.
Yes, my Tern folding bike has a Shimano Claris 1x8, and it’s been smooth and trouble-free for over 5000km so far!
To be honest, “low end” and “high end” doesn’t really mean “one will work and the other won’t”. I think people assume that entry-level means it’s crap. Really, you’re only paying for a lighter and faster shifting system, often with fewer jumps between cogs, when you spend more money.
Any components that are dialed in will work regardless of where they fall on the spectrum.