RE: [CR]Pink Goodrich!

Doug,

You ask a valid question. Why do anyhing out of the ordinary at all? Whay start with this or that. In the world of "custom framebuilding" there are usually an infinite number of options one might have at their disposal for accomplishing the goal of making a precise handeling machine, that fits well, will last a VERY long time with proper care, and give the owner the pleasure of knowing that their bike truely is "one-of-a-kind" and was indeed built just for them and for a specific purpose which they specified.

Just for a quick example of a custom frame as opposed to a made to measure frame, for example, would be the situation of Curt Goodrich. Curt does both quite excellently. He is the same builder, but each bike is undertaken with a different purpose and therefore different internal attitude towards the bike. He will apply his skills to the best of his ability dependent on his intentions. When making the made to measure frames, although there are "personal touches and options" that may still be within the perameters of the Rivendell frame boundries; there still limitations from various directions.

A Curt Goodrich frame, as seen by the example of the beautiful pink frame just completed, is a prime example of a custom frame. I'm sure the customer stated the purpose for the bike, and Curt designed the frame according to his own experience and philosophy. They agreed upon the braze ons and other functional features, the position the rider was seeking, and finally the aesthetic points of the frame; and the result is what you. Personally, I like this simpler but more elegent styling of the Pacenti lugs on this frame as compared to some earlier ones I've seen. Kirks' lugs are especiall inspirational and supportive of these graceful lines. Sure, there's lots of chopping, but when the end result is as pleasing as the lug shape, chrome contrast and sharp polishing, and brialliant and expressive thin paint, you have a winning combination. Also a nice pair of hand made seat stay caps indicate and showcase style in addition to being very well designed for durability. That's how custom frames are made. You have lots of options for lugs, and almost anything else you want, and the builder will guide you towards all the correct desicions. I will expand on this later, but the example of Curts' work and the distinction is ideal. Furthermore, which would I prefer? The answer is obvious. What will cost more, the answer is obvious. Same man, different bike. The more of the man in the bike, the more desireable I see it as being. It takes work to put it there and the builder decides how much to put in each time. How much or how long it takes varies from person to person, and it's not the point. Nonetheless, the point IS in there, as we will discuss.

Brian Baylis
La Mesa, CA