> I prefer High Flange hubs on both my road bikes and track bikes. Not
> because I can tell any difference, but because I prefer the look.
Ben.. surely you're not suggesting that most folks spec components based mainly on how they look?!! I am shocked. Just as shocked as I am at the thought most buyers of lightweight racing bikes were sold on specific features and components because they simply were... cool.
Simply put, high flange hubs, starting with the best of them all, the famous Harden "bacon slicers" of the late '40s, were "hot" in the 1950s-60s. But only old fuddy-duddys wanted them in the '70s. Or maybe the few score real pros who could tell the difference between small or large. Small flange hubs were just groovy and that was it. Like Ray-Ban aviator sunglasses with the lenses that changed according to the light.
Or what about frame pumps? In the 1950s, they were often on the down tube, then in the 1960s under the top tube (very cool) and then the Italian style frame fitting ones on the seat tube. And now.. well no one carries a pump it seems.
Important points for the restorer who, in defiance perhaps of his own preference, wants "period correct". My '73 Cinelli would look "un 70s" with large flange hubs and that's it. Marcia Brady wouldn't be caught dead with a guy riding a bike with large flange hubs.
So if you wanna do it "right", you gotta get into the groove.. even if it means small flange hubs and those Ray Ban sunglasses.
Peter Kohler
Washington DC USA