Re: [CR]was nagasawa, now perception versus reality

Though I have not betted on Keirin racers and don't have much information, sometimes I wonder why Keirin authority limited the suppliers of frames to about 50 Japanese steel frame builders who passed the examination. It is said that the purpose is to prevent accidents due to breakage.
    But I see on TV some racers ride frames whose seat angle is near vertical.This is the most recent innovation I know. It seems dangerious to me.
    When keirin racers go to Olympics and World Championship , Keirin authority give them Look aluminium frames and disk wheels. But tig-welded steel frame did not pass the examination. Is Look aluminium frame stronger than tig-welded steel frame?
    Keirin authority may intend to make Japanese small builders survive a little longer.
    I don't know if newer thin steel-alloy tubes are used or not, but I know Reynolds 753 is used. I think there is not the regulation of bike weights.
    I think aluminium or carbon frames would make keirin races more popular among young generation. Sometimes I see betters on trains . Almost all look older than I.
                          Takao Noda
                Hachioji Tokyo Japan