Shimano

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.

Parts are parts, but Shimano puts out a great product with the Ultegra/XT RT-CL800 Disc Rotor. As long as you replace the pads timely and keep dirt and grit out of the system (read as CLEAN your bike frequently), this rotor will last a long time.

Bike Tires Direct is my "go to" for quality products and good pricing!