I would prefer to install test product myself to be clear, but with a brand new product and a relatively short testing timeline before launch, I can see why this makes sense for SRAM. While SRAM is installing the product they are also doing a PK session on both the product and the setup procedure. Other brands sometimes do this as well.
I can see why, for reasons of logistics and consistency, particularly when there is a range of mechanical knowledge and ability among reviewers - and they are dealing with media from all over the world.
I’ve been told by an employee from a direct to consumer bike brand that they do “media builds” before sending out bikes (I honestly don’t recall which brand and I guess it’s good that they admitted it?) That’s a flag for sure considering they seemed unsure about the process they use with consumers but there isn’t anything deceptive going on here. SRAM is also somewhat dependent on us to communicate any necessary procedures effectively so going through the process with us makes some sense.
In a perfect world - or when media camps were more common, it’s easier to imagine going through the process and then letting each tester install their own parts, which would be better for everyone.
March 28, 2025, 8:37 a.m. - Cam McRae
I would prefer to install test product myself to be clear, but with a brand new product and a relatively short testing timeline before launch, I can see why this makes sense for SRAM. While SRAM is installing the product they are also doing a PK session on both the product and the setup procedure. Other brands sometimes do this as well. I can see why, for reasons of logistics and consistency, particularly when there is a range of mechanical knowledge and ability among reviewers - and they are dealing with media from all over the world. I’ve been told by an employee from a direct to consumer bike brand that they do “media builds” before sending out bikes (I honestly don’t recall which brand and I guess it’s good that they admitted it?) That’s a flag for sure considering they seemed unsure about the process they use with consumers but there isn’t anything deceptive going on here. SRAM is also somewhat dependent on us to communicate any necessary procedures effectively so going through the process with us makes some sense. In a perfect world - or when media camps were more common, it’s easier to imagine going through the process and then letting each tester install their own parts, which would be better for everyone.