In a message dated 4/22/03 11:21:40 PM Pacific Daylight Time, gillies@cs.ubc.ca writes:
> the european frame makers and component companies, especially
> campagnolo but also stronglight and cinelli, evoke a "passion" for
> bicycle design and styling. the parts and frames are a work of art.
> i'd like to see pictures of just one japanese frame or component set
> that comes close to being a work of art.
>
Look at an old 3Rensho. The first time I saw one (around 1980 or so) I wanted
one bad. By that time I'd owned: Masi, Cinelli, Windsor, Bianchi (several),
Peninne (2), Frejus(2), and built a couple of frames. In the days before
"investment cast everything", it was easy to tell what frames were made with
passion, if you had the eye. I think the better builders are not simply under
represented in this country, they are UN-represented. People either buy what
they see or what they're familiar with or know the reputation of. It's a
trust thing.
All of the rest of your points I'm pretty much in agreement with.
Stevan Thomas
Alameda, CA