Keepers of the flame. That moniker can cover a lot of ground, but I think generally represents the remaining segment of the bicycle industry that, in some way, holds to the traditions that most of us on this list revere. I believe what Bruce is pointing out, and what I agree with, is that framebuilders (maybe they should be KOF-builders) are really a special segment of that part of the market. In fact, these KOF framebuilders are probably the true focus of what we love about bicycle frames (primarily steel ones). It has been speculated that we may be living in the true "golden age" of American custom framebuilders, and I think we are, but fine craft-builders are also all around the globe. A look around at those builders (I won't try and name them all) reveals just how amazing the quality, diversity, and choices are. Some have excruciating lead times, but lots don't. We should all be supporting these wonderful builders whenever and however possible.
A lot of us on this list were originally hooked by the romance and mystique of the European builders, even if some of those "builders" were no longer actually building (or maybe never, or rarely, were). I'm not trying to revisit the subject of what constitutes a "real" touched-by-the-master frame. That's a different issue entirely. Look around us. Current "masters" are everywhere. How can you get more mystique or mojo than that? If we are really the connoisseurs/collectors we sometimes think we are, we should all be doing whatever we can to get our hands on one (or more) of these fabulous frames. What can be more desirable, more romantic, than to have one of these masters custom build a frame just for us? I, for one, try to put my money where my mouth is. While I can't put a deposit down with every one for a custom frame (yet), I'm doing whatever I can to acquire some of these masterpieces to ride, admire and enjoy. I purchased one of Richard Sach's team frames. I bought a Ryffrank. I traded my Confente for a Baylis. I sold my Masi to buy a Weigle. I bought a custom Land Shark from John Slawta at last year's charity auction after selling a couple other bikes from my collection. I even still have a deposit with Dave Bohm. If I last long enough and can afford it, I'll have deposits with other framebuilders as well.
I have a high regard for Grant Peterson (ever since his days at Bridgestone), and respect and admire what he's doing with Rivendell. Personally, however, I'd be ponying up for a Goodrich before buying one of Grant's offerings. For me, the opportunity (and the difference) would be too good to pass up. Which one is going to be the real collectable in the future?
In the world of the classic diamond bicycle frame, we all live in an amazing time of opportunity and choices. And in the world of KOF builders, the same holds true. Indeed, maybe more so than in many other times. Why aren't more of "us" beating down the doors of Bruce Gordon and the rest? (I'm not really seeking an answer to that question, just think about it from your own perspective within the context of this "hobby".)
And go support your independent KOF framebuilder.
Wayne Bingham
Lovettsville VA