The date restriction, arbitrary though it may be, is valuable because many of us don't want to belong to a high-volume list that duplicates content available elsewhere. Just because most people on this list may be interested in a subject isn't good enough - I'm sure most people here are interested in the Slobodan Milosovich trial or the figure-skating judging scandal. (Sorry, I know this type of meta-discussion doesn't improve the s/n ratio, but it seems to be necessary from time to time.)
A 2002 Richard Sachs with Campy 9-speed is a completely modern bike. While it'll be a classic someday, I'd prefer we limit the scope more. There are other fora to discuss what kind of modern bikes you like to ride. Please don't take this as a flame, I'm just stating my preference.
I do like to read about those reproductions of classics, like a new Toei or Singer frame with 50s parts on it, so I guess I'm open to some exceptions, but I vote for a little more discipline. A hard date cutoff rule with no exceptions would be better than the current level of exceptions, in my opinion.
Maybe this is a tad pessimistic, but it seems to me that unmoderated mailing lists tend to degenerate; as the members most sensitive to list volume and quality drop out, the percentage of people who like off-topic chatter goes up, which causes the next-most sensitive types to drop out, etc. That's why rules, and a moderator who's not afraid to enforce them, are essential. Dale will step on a few toes, ya can't please everyone, but a lot of us are only here because of the high quality level Dale's stewardship has enabled. Some valued members have quit already due to the volume as it is.
Mark Bulgier
Seattle, Wa
USA