I don't own a Rivendell. I can't say that I've looked at them up close and personal for more than a few seconds. But, from what I've seen, they have several things going for them: 1) Pleasing to the eye--nice paint and decals; 2) Gorgeous headbadge 3) Interesting sizing philosophy with the saddle-bar level; 4) Fender clearance. Now, can I get all of those things with a custom bike from most of the builders? Probably. I don't know of many who have a nice headbadge, but all of the other things can be custom ordered. Can I get those things from a custom builder at a pricepoint that is within 10% of Rivendell? I don't know, but my guess is no. But, should I be in the market for a bike with fenders that met all of the above criteria, I would probably use Rivendell for comparison purposes. I must not have seen one of the hideous lug models. Regarding Rivendells holding their value, I've not owned one, so I have no personal experience, but my perception is that they do well on the auctions. Lou Deeter, Orlando FL
Tracers work both ways. Infantry Sergeant