I watched the Worldwide Cyclery video about the new rockshox stuff the other day and they were talking about how much better it is. I wasn't convinced and struggle with bike reviewing in general that are just so subjective and nitpicky. I think it's because the tech in mountain bikes (frames, forks, shocks, suspension layouts, geometry) has come to a real standstill/peak the last few years with only tiny incremental benefits. There's heaps more brands covering every point of differentiation and coming into the shifting and brakes area. Even carbon seems to have had its day. The only real unique/innovative stuff I have seen would be the Athertons new frames (Unique in terms of materials and manufacturing but of little real world value) and Guerilla Gravity's modular frame (I'm a fan). So if the tech is stable then the only thing that can really change is the looks/aesthetics. Yet still, it seems like the cost of bikes keeps going up and up even with brands like Giant.
I was also looking at e-bike pricing out of interest and it amazes me how something with a motor, battery, and gearbox can be equivalent to or even cheaper than a lot of mtb's with similar componentry. I know there will always be boutique/expensive bike brands but I struggle to see how the industry can continue along like it is when a second hand frame can cost $4k but a brand new ebike with good componentry costs $6k.
I just really wonder about the sustainability of the bike industry at the moment.
Thoughts?
I was also looking at e-bike pricing out of interest and it amazes me how something with a motor, battery, and gearbox can be equivalent to or even cheaper than a lot of mtb's with similar componentry. I know there will always be boutique/expensive bike brands but I struggle to see how the industry can continue along like it is when a second hand frame can cost $4k but a brand new ebike with good componentry costs $6k.
I just really wonder about the sustainability of the bike industry at the moment.
Thoughts?