on 8/18/03 10:25 PM, Stephen Barner at steve@sburl.com wrote:
> This vignette is a great example of how you can very precisely measure
> attributes that may not accurately reflect what happens to the component in
> service. Precision =/= accuracy.
I agree that it's quite possible for the test methodology to be flawed. However, there are two considerations here. First, before condemning the data, we should determine exactly how it is flawed. Just because the test methodology isn't an exact replica of real world use doesn't mean that the testing is useless.
Second, we should also consider these data in relation to other known data. The trouble here is that there has been little testing and publishing of test results is rare. So, we don't have a lot to go on beyond theoretical speculation.
I love testing because it helps separate the fact from the myth. It's not a perfect process, but I prefer it to trusting what the marketing brochures say or what some old time Italian wrench says.
In any case, this has already become a subject more appropriate for rec.bicycles.tech or the hardcore bicycle science group. So, I'll let it go. If anyone wants to discuss it further off-line, I'm game.
Todd Kuzma
Heron Bicycles
LaSalle, IL 815-223-1776
http://www.heronbicycles.com