Strengths: Strong. Really strong. Versatile, depending on how you build it up - anything from XC to light DH. Looks nice? Oh, and the disc mount *is* international standard.
Weaknesses: Not sure about the warranty. Stickers peel easily, but all that means is I have to go and get some more.
Overall: Really, really good. In this price range, also check out the PlanetX Compo, but the Stiffee is highly recommended.
Strengths: They are much better than V-brakes in the wet. Good modulation. Fairly reliable. Reasonable customer service.
Weaknesses: Not very much power, especially compared to Magura GustavM - even when bedded in. Hard to adjust feel of lever. Uses DOT fluid (perfect for stripping paint). Costs the same as the Hope Enduro-4 (a much better brake). Much harder to set up than my Gustav - washers etc are needed, and it's bit fiddly. They've also started squeaking recently.
Overall: There's really no point in buying this brake now, as the Hope Enduro4 is the same price (I'm really kicking myself, as the Enduro-4 came out a month after I bought the O2). It's OK, and it's a definite upgrade from V-brakes, but it's by no means great.
Strengths: Incredible stopping power, good modulation, uses mineral oil rather than DOT, open system + floating caliper means no adjustment needed, 2001 model is a less violent colour. Excellent customer service.
Weaknesses: The early 2001 model has some problems. If you have one, you should get it checked, and if you find yourself needing to pump the brake, I'd stop riding. Master piston failure may follow. Magura have recalled mine and are replacing the lever, but it does take a while. Another minor irritation - the bolts holding the rotor on require a torx key. Magura provide one in the box, but I wouldn't carry it around, as it's hard to replace when you lose it. On the plus side it makes it easier to do up the bolts tight.
Overall: If you shop around, you can save a lot of money, so they're not that expensive really. They work incredibly well. They're not as heavy as they used to be, and they are perfectly suitable for all types of riding unless you're really counting the grams. Customer service is amazing - I needed a new spring and it came the next day - free of charge! I'm still waiting for the new lever though. When I get it I will be a very happy bunny indeed.
Strengths: Stiff, noticably more so than my old cheese-like cranks. Lovely finish, wide range of colours. Good warranty as far as I've heard. Made by Race Face. They look great. Light weight (like I care).
Weaknesses: The colour tends to come off, but not all that much. Quite expensive.
Overall: They're really good, and they hold up well for XC cranks, which is what they are. Not for freeriding or downhill riding. Race Face do other cranks for that. Loads of people use them, and I'm sure it's not just hype. They may be expensive, but they'll last you for life.
Strengths: It's really comfortable. It's not too heavy. It's got kevlar bits round the sides to prevent scuffing.
Weaknesses: It's expensive. I couldn't find one in the UK for less than £80. Assuming it lasts, that's OK. It's not that light, but nor am I, so that's OK.
Overall: I upgraded from a Flite Ti because of some nagging pain after long rides, even with padded shorts. It took a bit of get used too, but after a few hours I was convinced. I really like this saddle. The only thing stopping me from giving it 5's all round is the fact that it cost £80 - my Flite was a touch over £30. Even the most expensive Specialized BG saddle is 'only' £70. But the Koobi is worth it, and I would buy it again.
Strengths: Not too expensive. Very very light. Titanium rails have some give to them, so the ride is noticably less harsh, with much less vibration.
Weaknesses: After long rides it can become a bit uncomfortable, especially if you tend to stay seated and if you're not wearing padded shorts. The nose and sides of the titanium model can wear. If that's a problem, you can get them with kev;ar.
Overall: If you buy it, you won't be disappointed. It's one of those components that practically everyone uses, and for good reason. And I haven't broken the rails yet.
