Grant Petersen wrote:
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> The question is: Libertas--YES or NO?
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>
I vote no. No doubt I'm in a minority position here; it probably wouldn't matter to many folks (at least on this side of the Atlantic).
Nonetheless, I would always associate the name with the Belgian make... I would suggest you continue the search for a more original name to associate with your new bike--stake out your own turf and create a unique identity.
But still, imagine some years from now if the same thing happened to you Grant. Who knows, maybe the Libertas firm folded for reasons beyond the control of the owner, yet he (and/or his heirs) are still fond of the bikes and their name and what they achieved with the company. As you wrote "On the con side, I don't think I'd feel great about somebody doing that to Rivendell (or Rambouillet)." So, since the name has been used for another frame brand in the not too distant past, I'd steer clear of it.
Bill Bryant
Santa Cruz, CA