Bike brands market placement

[mobi]

I am trying to understand which brands are premium and which are basic. So far I could not find any single reference on web. I am thinking of something similar shown below. Please note that I created the image just to illustrate my point and not claiming to be an authoritative source.

If you expert guys can update the diagram, it can serve as a ready reckoner when someone asks for which bike to go for.

I understand it may be more completed than that for example, one such diagram for MTB only, one for road bikes etc. but it will be a good start to have any such reference.

 

[redcard]

Surely it's based on price rather than brand?

 

[mobi]

Price is absolute but quality is often perceived as well.

 

[Cycleops]

Surely it's based on price rather than brand?

Yes it is, the manufactures shown cater to the markets indicated. It's interesting to see how we the consumers relate to them quality wise. Some makers don't want to go too far down the ladder for fear of appearing cheap but they get kudos at the bottom end for producing premium bikes as well eg Giant. It will be interesting to see where Halfords take Boardman now they have control of it.

 

[boydj]

One of the major factors in price is the level of components. Each of the three major component manufacturers have a clear hierarchy for the price/quality relationship and the differences in quality between component manufacturers is marginal. The major manufacturers of frames tend to cover all market segments with different quality levels in frame materials and construction and the level of components used.

All of the above means that price is a major factor and, apart from some niche manufacturers, I don't think any of the mainstream brands could be considered as 'premium'. Of course there may be some snobbery directed against some of the good value brands like Ribble and Planet-X. Personally I'd base any selection I was making on reviews rather than brand name.

 

[vickster]

Perception will probably ultimately come down to the size of the marketing budget

 

[ufkacbln]

Not sure that I would place Kona or Trek where they are, their bikes start off way down on the Apollo scale, and some Giant bikes are way up with or above the Kona / Trek prices

Equally the Carrera Subway has been one of the better value/ quality bikes in its class for some years

 

[Steady]

If there's a pre-beginner category I'd definitely place Apollo in that rather than "beginner", as Apollo range seem to appeal to those dipping their toe or "just need a bike" sort of bike.

Beginner for me more means.. Viking, Carrera, B'twin, Giant.

 

[vickster]

Surely it depends on the financial wherewithal of said beginner. My first roadbike was a carbon jobbie

 

[Gravity Aided]

Huffy's, Magnas, Murrays, Pacifics, all scrape the bottom of the fryer over here. Schwinn, Mongoose are very slightly better. At the top end, you have the Trek, Waterford, and British and American custom cycle builders. Price may make the sale, but quality makes the satisfaction.

 

[mobi]

I have attached actual price range of various brands. This is for MTBs only though.

 

[vickster]

Don't forget to adjust for discounts, quidco and c2w

Is this a school project?

 

[mobi]

It is not a school project :-) I could not find this info elsewhere so plotted the values in Excel to have a quick summary.

 

[vickster]

What's it to be used for? Branding and perceptions are really very subtle. Price makes specialized a 'premium' brand but I'd never have another one and only part of that is actually the bike! I'd never buy a pinnarello either, but for quite different reasons

You trying to justify spending 5k

 

[mobi]

I currently ride an Apollo bike. I was trying to figure out if I want to upgrade in near future, which brands I'll be considering.