Brian,
It is encouraging that there is a movement to offer a lugged steel frame among the multitude of TIG aluminum,scandium,and titanium frames currently in production.
Personally I like the paint scheme and graphics. To me it's a kinda funky retro look.
Nick Zatezalo Atlanta,Ga
Chuck,
I can't quite make out exactly what they did to the head lug. I'm all in favor of removing the extention; but these lugs don't lend themselves to a particularly graceful modification. I have been successful in modifying a Pacenti lug to my taste, but most lugs cast with an extention are not well suited to changes. Ideally a lug pattern should be completly consistent in theme and should be flowing and graceful throught the design. It seems that the best way to accomplish this is to start with whatever intention you have in mind as opposed to modify something. The "art" of modifying lugs is more difficult than one might imagine; very few builders really have "the touch" for modifying lugs into a graceful and beautiful design in my opinion.
Personally, I applaud the effort to build a lugged steel frame, but am somewhat disappointed in the lack of top class refinements in the construction and very poor graphic design in my view. There is no harmony in the graphic scheme at all.
The encourageing sign here is that the Italians seem to be starting to recognize "vintage" styling and the concept of nostalgia. Who woulda' thought? I think it's fairly obvious that we are entering another cycle of steel frames. The chore again will be in seperating decent frames with excellent paint jobs from excellent frames with excellent paint jobs. Education is neccessary. Hopefully I can help one sharpen ones' eyes to the details that "seperate the men from the boys".
Brian Baylis
La Mesa, CA