@Allen Lloyd And don't even get me going on trying to find replacement axles! I have two new bikes (which sit next to each other the product range and are both 2018 designs) from the same brand (tough problem I know) and "tickle me with a cheese grater" they have different rear axle specs and different hanger systems. They are both 148 Boost but one bike runs a TA12/L174/TL20/M12x1.75 and the other a TA12/L171/TL20/M12x1.0\. From a parts/ inventory point of view there are four SKUs (two axles and two hangers) when their could, from an engineering perspective be two common parts. As a rider I have to buy two spare hangers rather than one.
You need a PHD in inventory management to keep track of headset permutations these days and the industry should have collectively moved to T47 bottom brackets years ago. Pressfit bottom brackets, which compromise bearing size and number (PF92), on a mountain bike are a stupid idea anyway (unless you are a shop). I cannot remember the last time I actually wore out a threaded XTR or XT bottom bracket anyway.
And all those trail side conversations that started with "I don't think this 24mm crank spindle I am running is stiff enough......"
The industry needs a rocket up its arse and unfortunately, as consumers, we are collectively too disorganised (someone will always want a new bike or parts) to say "f&*k you" and not buy anything for 12-24 months.
Jan. 23, 2018, 9:26 a.m. - AndrewR
@Allen Lloyd And don't even get me going on trying to find replacement axles! I have two new bikes (which sit next to each other the product range and are both 2018 designs) from the same brand (tough problem I know) and "tickle me with a cheese grater" they have different rear axle specs and different hanger systems. They are both 148 Boost but one bike runs a TA12/L174/TL20/M12x1.75 and the other a TA12/L171/TL20/M12x1.0\. From a parts/ inventory point of view there are four SKUs (two axles and two hangers) when their could, from an engineering perspective be two common parts. As a rider I have to buy two spare hangers rather than one. You need a PHD in inventory management to keep track of headset permutations these days and the industry should have collectively moved to T47 bottom brackets years ago. Pressfit bottom brackets, which compromise bearing size and number (PF92), on a mountain bike are a stupid idea anyway (unless you are a shop). I cannot remember the last time I actually wore out a threaded XTR or XT bottom bracket anyway. And all those trail side conversations that started with "I don't think this 24mm crank spindle I am running is stiff enough......" The industry needs a rocket up its arse and unfortunately, as consumers, we are collectively too disorganised (someone will always want a new bike or parts) to say "f&*k you" and not buy anything for 12-24 months.