Assuming this is true I don't think it's so bad. I was initially tepid about disc brakes, but now appreciate that they are better in wet conditions and greatly extend rim life. 26" also do seem largely obsolete. I'd also like to see fewer bikes with 700c wheels in favor of 650b/27.5" wheels since they're more versatile and in many respects combine the best attributes of 26" and 700c wheels.