Cyclists generally buy what the industry offers, like it or not. I would like to see a backlash of sorts by some manufacturers sticking to tried and true components and materials. I know that some do, but these products are not readily available locally in most places. Personally, I like manual shifting. It's one of the things that I do when I ride. I don't want to simply press a button. It's all a matter of preference, as bike technology over the past twenty or so years have made most bikes solid performers. My son is currently riding a 2004 Trek 2300 with Ultegra components and rim brakes. The bike still performs well, but some of the components are beginning to wear out. It would be good if he could replace them with what he prefers rather than what manufacturers prefer to produce. But that's the way of world.