While I don't know the guys behind Asphalt (who seem to have a bigger operation than I do, for sure!), I can tell you as the editor/publisher/mail clerk/etc. of Vintage Bicycle Quarterly that those of us who do these out-of-the-mainstream publications
a) don't make money doing it. (So renumerative work sometimes comes first.) b) have to fit the publishing into their busy schedules. (So sometimes, your e-mail will not be answered.) c) usually are enthusiastic cyclists (so we may be out for a week of riding). d) are really happy about anybody supporting us.
Whether Gabe Konrad with his Bikelore, Chuck Schmidt with his catalogs or others, it's a labor of love. And it is easier to justify when people are enthusiastic, when they recommend it to their friends, when there are favorable reviews, etc. (All of which has been the case with VBQ...)
For those interested, VBQ now has 214 subscribers plus about 50 copies sold wholesale. I am breaking even now, if I don't count my time... I figure if every subscriber brings on board 1000 friends, I'll match Bicycling's numbers... but I am not holding my breath ;)
My hope is 36 more subscribers in the next 2 months, so I can add four pages for issue 4 (or more, so I can add eight!). Right now, I have to edit every line to fit as much content into the space alotted - material there is more than enough, but no money to print it all!
Jan Heine, Seattle
http://www.mindspring.com/