I’ve had a Genesis Croix De Fer on-and-off now for about 2-months, and I found the Shimano Deore set-up really variable.
The front SCREAMS like hell, not to mention that the front forks judder like crazy. The rear is a dream, but it does squeal a bit, but nowhere near as much as the front. Awful, unfortunately. It’s been back to the shop/manufacturer time-after-time and it’s not getting much better unfortunately :o(
Ridden Avid BB7’s on bikes like Jamis Aurora Elite and they seem very well matched and graduated. Smooth action from the front and rear, with the ability to lock either wheel if you/I want. In my humble opinion, the Avid BB7’s inspire far more confidence in them.