>>>How many of you would buy a bike that is historical / collectible if it is not your size. Ray Homiski<<<<
Probably like most on this list, I prefer to acquire bikes in my size, because I really want to ride them and be comfortable while I'm doing it. And also like many on this list, I can ride frames that vary in size by several centimeters, depending on the bike. Riding something that fits is the best way to really compare how different geometries, materials and components affect the experience. I have often ridden bikes that seemed odd or awkward initially, but changed with a few minor adjustments and some miles in the saddle. And sometimes not. Sometimes first impressions prove true. But riding them is part of the whole experience, so why settle for less if you don't have to.
So, in most cases I will pass on something that's not my size, figuring that I'll wait until one in the right size comes along. If you are patient, it usually does. However, there are always cases where something rare or unusual, or just plain too good a deal to pass up will get purchased. In those cases, I would most likely hold on to it for use in trade for something similar, or just to pass on to someone else in the vintage community. When I stumbled on a Confente track bike at a swap meet a while back, I certainly didn't pass it up because it was a 61cm and I ride a 55 or 56!
Wayne Bingham
Falls Church VA