I would agree about the Holdsworth, but Ron Cooper is a damned fine frame builder on any basis of comparison. I believe he is probably capable of craftsmanship equal to Brian's and when I say that I mean as good as anyone in the world, because I think Brian is second to none. The level of finish of the typical Cooper frame is perhaps not quite that of a Baylis, but I don't think that is because Cooper is less capable. Rather I think most of Ron's customers have not been willing to pay the price necessary to do the near-perfect degree of finish that is typical of a Baylis frame.
Regards,
Jerry Moos
Glenn Benveniste <swfish1@cox.net> wrote:
I will have to jump to Brian's side here. I have owned a frame of his before and although I think the Holdsworths and Coopers are good frames and some better than good, the workmanship does not compare to Brian's in the slightest. I think maybe you have to see them close at hand, but Brian's work is simply not comparable to any but a few that spend way more time seeking perfection in their frames and paint work. Louis, having seen and owned Brian's work and seen and owned 20 or more frames, I have to disagree with your view entirely. Glenn Benveniste Oceanside, CA
-----Original Message----- From: classicrendezvous-bounces@bikelist.org [mailto:classicrendezvous-bounces@bikelist.org] On Behalf Of Louis Schulman Sent: Friday, March 11, 2005 1:26 PM To: classicrendezvous@bikelist.org Subject: Re: [CR]Ebay outing: Re-listing of Baylis
This is a very beautiful bicycle. But, I have to say, after closely scrutinizing the photos, the workmanship is not better than my 1965 Reg Collard-built Holdsworth Italia Strada, or my 1973 Ron Cooper.
I raise this point only because it points out how value relates as much to hype and perception as it does with physical reality. The Holdsworth frame cost me $650 newly restored, and the Cooper was $150 with original finish that could use a little work.
The workmanship of a number of the old British builders was as good as any, and generally much better than the famous Italian builders who are worshipped on this list.
It will be interesting to see how much this bike goes for.
Louis Schulman Tampa, Florida USA
-----Original Message----- Subject: [CR]Ebay outing: Re-listing of Baylis
Hello all,
I just re-listed the Baylis bicycle that was up a short time earlier this week. I pulled the original listing down because the owner of the bicycle wanted the security of a higher reserve price. He would rather keep it instead of selling it for less than the new reserve.
Please feel free to contact me via email or phone w/ any questions or comments.
-Thanks
Chris Andersen