[flash4092]

Does anyone have any idea why Shimano would produce the XTR caliper with a pad axle (the small bolt that keeps the pads in place) that requires a flathead screwdriver to remove and install? I have 4 bikes in the house, have worked on probably 30 others, and have NEVER seen a flathead bolt on a bike. What on earth were Shimano thinking? My only guess is that the pair of them might save 1 gram compared to hex head equivalents, and from where I sit that's a really bad trade.

 

[wschruba]

Weight is only one reason. The flatheads are fine, really, and it's [almost] impossible to make them too tight, which is a surprisingly common issue. Ease of manufacture could be considered, as well.

If you were really concerned about weight, you'd use an aluminum cotter pin. However, they are seen as 'cheap' in the bicycle world, so you won't see them on high-end products. They would also wear excessively fast.