I would have to agree. I bought a Mercian and although it has character the workmanship and finish were disappointing. A stem could not be inserted without getting the steerer reamed out first, same with the BB. The frame was straight but no where near the level of a Kirk I have. To be fair though the Mercian costs half as much for an equivelant Kirk frame.If I had to have one or the other I'd pay more and get the better quality Kirk/Sachs etc.