On Tuesday, Mar 8, 2005, at 08:48 US/Pacific, Bob Freitas wrote:
> Anyone notice BRUCE GORDON was a participant?
Yep. I must say that's a smart move on his part. As one of the few big name builders that I feel really understands touring bikes I think branching out to Japan is a really good idea. As we've seen on the list the Japanese are bike crazy (I could tell stories about the early 90s working in a high end MTB shop, but that's totally OT.) Japan as a culture is very club oriented and bike touring clubs are quite popular. Also when the Japanese clubs do something they go all the way and there are no half measures. You may only be going out for a day-ride or weekender, but you need to look like you're about to trek the world.
I've got to say his level of craftsmanship should really appeal to Japanese cyclists. Personally Bruce is one of the folks who someday I'll have build a bike for me. I feel about the same for Bruce's bikes as e-Richie feels about Nagasawa. I also think he has a real eye for bike colors, when you fist look at them you think 'eugh, that's a really ugly color but it's kinda cool too.' After a little more time the "ugly" part of your reaction just disappears and it just seems right. Of course it could just be me, it wouldn't be the first time my taste has been called in to question. Can anyone ID the starter lugs? Old-stock stamped Prugnat longpoint? Looks like a Nervex fork crown? enjoy, Brandon"monkeyman"Ives just the seatstays and braze-ons to go and Mitzi has a mixte in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho