Shimano

For years a did not do a full bleed and only used the cup but now since I had to replace the cable I had to. The kit has all the parts and even the cup is better than the one I had before. The connectors and everything else are quality and work well.

After some research I didn't use the syringe since I did it in reverse with gravity which empties the whole thing. I really recommend that for anyone doing a bleed.

My experience is with Shimano brakes. Haven't done it on my SRAM brakes yet.

I've been road cycling for years but want to explore some gravel riding and touring. Not wanting to mess with my position on the bike and pedals, it was nice to have the option of the shorter axle to keep the q-angle unchanged from my road pedals. The difference in stack height is less than a millimeter, so no significant change there either. There's a little more float but that's manageable. The pedals hang just right for consistent clipping in. I'm pleased with the transition, although I do miss the large contact area of my road pedals.

An Ultegra chain is so good and smooth and reliable that I don't even have to think about it! And BTD has such great sale prices and quick, efficient delivery that it's a no-brainer:)

I needed waterproof shoes that would keep me slightly warmer during winter rides in central North Carolina. I bought these a half size too large so I could wear thicker socks with them and that worked out perfectly. I wore them during 10 miles of single track in the upper thirties with moderate rain and they kept me warm and dry. I haven't tried them out in the snow yet and at this point that will have to wait until next season. The BOA system is a bonus as it's much easier to keep clean compared to Velcro or laces.