[CR]Originals vs. Replicas

(Example: Production Builders:Cinelli:Laser)

From: "Dave Novoselsky" <dnovo@ix.netcom.com>
To: <classicrendezvous@bikelist.org>
Subject: [CR]Originals vs. Replicas
Date: Tue, 22 Apr 2003 20:59:47 -0500


I would assume that part of the problem, Curt, is just as you suspect: Japanese framebuilders simply get 'no respect' while French builders are treated with what amounts to virtual sainthood. And, there is little objective reason for either view.

I may not have the same eye for a frame that you and Richie Sachs possess, but both of you have expressed quite a bit of appreciation for such Japanese efforts as the Nagasawa frame which I was fortunate enough to purchase earlier this year and Richie 'outed' on this group. Richie refers to the works of this one-man shop as his source of inspiration for many years. You also expressed appreciation of the early 80s Zunow frame that I bought recently and just finished building Yet another Japanese framebuilder that is largely unappreciated by collectors in this country.

Frankly, there are some excellent builders in Japan and they have been at work at their craft nearly as long as their French counterparts. Which group has the better product?

Well, I was thinking of a Singer recently, then I saw what some would call an 'imitation' of the same style by Toei that a friend had brought back from Japan. I agree that there is no question which one was constructed and built better, the Japanese product. The workmanship on the frame (of course, to my layman's eye only) was better on the Japanese product. The paint was superior as well, and paint is usually something that most enthusiats can weigh without the same problems that might present themselves when contrasting style and ability in basic frame construction.

Let me offer this observation as well: Compare the average 'low end' lugged steel frame from a builder in Europe, including some of the current 'survivors' offered by traditional Italian builders such as Cinelli, Tommasini, etc. I like my recently acquired, current production CInelli SuperCorsa, But sitting next to my Rivendell Atlantis or Rambo, also lugged steel in roughly the same price range (okay, the Cinelli is a tad cheaper, but the equiv Tommasini is the same price) the fit and finish, especially the lug work (and the labor on the lugs themselves as well as the basic lugs) on the Japanese-built Rivs is head and shoulders above their 'Old World' rivals. Paint? Give me a break, the Rivs are so far above their competition that it is not even an issue.

As I said, Curt, the Japanese simply get no respect when it comes to bicycles, now or in 'our era.'

Dave Novoselsky
Chicago, Illinois