A: Guessing you haven't read beyond the parts in threads where they mention upgrades, typically there are some kind of explanations as to why. Almost invariably, it's about how you plan to use your bike. The upgrades are aligned with longer term durability, safety, and performance. But they also have to do with value, ironically. In the sense that someone can get a decent frame (and perhaps a few other components that don't concern them) for a low price, and then replace (often systematically as needed) whichever components they feel are inferior. So while I understand your point in one sense, I also see why riders do this. It's not that there's anything necessarily "wrong" with the stock equipment......but it depends on your expectations (for durability, safety, and performance), and it most definitely depends on the conditions of the terrain and frequency of use within that framework of expectations. I think if you plan to use the "stock" 529 for light to moderate trails and don't push it beyond the capacity of the components included, then it should be a perfect fit. It's an entry level bike with a few upgrades relative to money spent on other bikes of that general caliber. Just try not to delude yourself with the bikesdirect, bikewarehouse, bikeisland MSRP inflation. The contrast in price is quite spellbinding!
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