On Friday, Aug 09, 2002, at 09:14AM, goodrichbikes <goodrichbikes@netzero.net> wrote:
>I think if you are looking to pick a fight by name calling, you should
>better describe how lightweight collectors are "wankers." Define what is a
>"wanker" and how does one "wank?" Are there varying degrees of "wankage?"
>Also, does "wankery" reduce mojo? Certainly name calling does. Lighten up.
Sorry. . . you're right Curt, I sent off a really quick missive without giving examples. I didn't mean to be harsh, I meant wankers in a more humorous vein. Here are a couple of the things that are examples I've seen in the balloon world. 1. Lou, Sheldon, Chuck, and others have good information on the prices, time lines and dates of bikes and parts. The fat-tire folks have many large volumes of price guides and dating information. Go into any antique store and you'll see those books right next to the ones for Beanie Babies and pocket watches. 2. Remember how a couple of months ago people thought one of the Japanese collectors was nuts for spending his wedding money on bikes. Well that is really common in the fat-tire crowd. I know people that have mortgaged their home, cashed in retirement accounts, and plundered their kids college funds. 3. The level of obsession with fat-tire bikes has destroyed many marriages, and I've only heard of one from lightweight collectors.
Lightweight collecting is in its infancy and what we see as crazy today is the future tomorrow. One of the reasons I got out of fat-tire bike (I personally preferred middle weights) was the cutthroat nature of the crowd. Though they did have a lot more get together, swaps, and conventions. I would recommend to anyone on the list to go to a fat-tire get together or a Wiz-in because you will learn something.
enjoy,
Brandon"monkeyman"Ives
SB, CA