Episode Summary
Welcome to another episode of the Cycle Systems Online Podcast! This week, host Sean Lally is joined by cycling Twitter star and Road CC reviewer Mike Stead. In this episode, they dive deep into a comprehensive review of Shimano CUES after one year of use. Both Sean and Mike share their experiences with Shimano CUES in various settings, including bike shops, repair businesses, and personal use on e-bikes and commuter bikes.
Key Discussion Points:
- Introduction to Shimano CUES:
- Mike reflects on the initial release of Shimano CUES and its delayed market availability.
- Overview of CUES’ cost-effectiveness and performance compared to higher-tier group sets like XT.
- Durability and Cost Savings:
- Discussion on the impressive durability of CUES components, particularly the steel cassettes and thicker, taller teeth design.
- Cost comparisons with other group sets and the significant savings on maintenance and replacement parts.
- Real-world examples of chain and cassette wear and replacement intervals, demonstrating CUES' longevity.
- Shimano CUES in Bike Shops:
- Sean and Mike’s experiences working with Shimano CUES in bike shops and repair businesses.
- The practical benefits of CUES for customers, especially those with e-bikes and high-use city bikes.
- Insights into the maintenance practices that maximize the lifespan of CUES components.
- Performance in Various Riding Conditions:
- Mike’s detailed account of using Shimano CUES on e-mountain bikes in challenging conditions in Scotland.
- The simplicity and reliability of CUES in both everyday and extreme use cases.
- Suitability for Different Types of Bikes:
- Exploration of Shimano CUES' potential for various bike types, including commuter bikes, city bikes, and bike packing setups.
- Advantages of using CUES for long-distance touring and heavy-duty riding, especially considering its durability and cost-efficiency.
Notable Quotes:
- "I would struggle to tell the difference between Shimano CUES and a high-end group set like XT in real-world riding."
- "With Shimano CUES, I’m getting 1,000 kilometers out of a chain under some of the most abusive conditions you can imagine."
- "For e-bikes and high-use commuter bikes, CUES makes absolute sense due to its cost-effectiveness and durability."
Resources and Links:
- Follow Mike Stead on Twitter: @mikestead
- Learn more about Shimano CUES: Shimano Website
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