They also need less gold on them. What a pain in the bum to put on. front and back tie strings and a wratchet. Why would I want to do all that? I'll stick with the ultras.
Yes the carbon makes a huge difference in performance. It makes the same difference as when I get the carbon trim in my civic. (disclaimer - i would never buy a civic)
I heard they have a new owner/management or something. If you don't like then who cares quit b-itching. Your probably the same people who get pissed when someone rags on Hyperlite stuff, but then turn around and do it to another product.