I love the idea of MTI- it’s generally how I think of my MTB parts and maintenance. Terrain in the PNW or other extremes will necessitate a higher level of performance from all parts, but most of the world can get by just as well on Deore as they would on AXS or XTR. I think many conflate the label on their parts with their own performance level. I see the weekend warriors who seemingly insist on only the best parts. That’s fine I guess but riding skill, tires, and suspension setup along with modern geometry are what I would say are the key pieces for happiness on a bike in the woods. I can happily friction shift a wide range 1x9 setup for an optimal chain line, and ride lower-level brakes and heavier alloy wheels so that I can afford suspension tuning. There are definitely some best places to spend one’s money.
Also, I can see how the Spank name seems juvenile but Surly? Really? Both brands make solid parts, eg. I actually have Spank rims on my FS bike, but I can’t say the brand names ever, ever entered my mind as a reason to skip them. Spank should be much more popular as their parts are great value, so maybe you’re onto something.
Feb. 14, 2022, 1:39 p.m. - T0m
I love the idea of MTI- it’s generally how I think of my MTB parts and maintenance. Terrain in the PNW or other extremes will necessitate a higher level of performance from all parts, but most of the world can get by just as well on Deore as they would on AXS or XTR. I think many conflate the label on their parts with their own performance level. I see the weekend warriors who seemingly insist on only the best parts. That’s fine I guess but riding skill, tires, and suspension setup along with modern geometry are what I would say are the key pieces for happiness on a bike in the woods. I can happily friction shift a wide range 1x9 setup for an optimal chain line, and ride lower-level brakes and heavier alloy wheels so that I can afford suspension tuning. There are definitely some best places to spend one’s money. Also, I can see how the Spank name seems juvenile but Surly? Really? Both brands make solid parts, eg. I actually have Spank rims on my FS bike, but I can’t say the brand names ever, ever entered my mind as a reason to skip them. Spank should be much more popular as their parts are great value, so maybe you’re onto something.