The head tube extension can be removed. It's just that nobody asks for it. Personally I like both the original lugs and the current ones. The current Rivendell lugs were designed by Tim Isaac with Grant's input. Tim has designed more lugs than anyone, at least in the U.S. It's fine with me if people like or dislike them. Wouldn't it be boring if we all liked or disliked the same thing?
Curt Goodrich
Minneapolis, MN