[CR]re: changing shape of fork bends

(Example: Framebuilders:Dario Pegoretti)

From: "Kirk Pacenti" <kirk@bikelugs.com>
To: classicrendezvous@bikelist.org
Date: Tue, 23 Dec 2003 22:53:43 -0400
Subject: [CR]re: changing shape of fork bends

Pete wrote: "Cheaper.

Manufacturers say: Forget the lugs, too much trouble. We'll weld them together.....they'll still buy them. We'll quit bending forks.....they'll still buy them. We'll quit threading forks...they'll still buy them. Next? Why weld we can mold...they'll still buy them!! Are they wrong?"

I think the queen of Versailles must have had the bike industry in mind when she said "Let them eat cake!"

I hate to agree, but as an "industry insider" I can tell you there is more than a little truth to Pete's observation. What bugs me is the industries need to hype these cost saving measures as technological advances.

I have no problem with a company offering welded, straight bladed, threadless and molded bikes. But please don't try to convince me I'll ride like Marrio, Lance or Jan because of it! Why not say these methods are more cost effective ways to build bicycles and because of it, we (insert favorite brand name here) can offer our customers a better value, or it's just better for our bottom line?

That would probably put a lot of marketing wonks out of work! ;) You would be surprised at how many products in the bike industry is not designed by Designers and Engineers, but sales and marketing departments! Sad but true.

Cheers,

Kirk Pacenti
Pacenti Cycle Design
http://www.bikelugs.com