I think we all know that the boom in cycling this time around is definitely 'race' driven. That is all that is marketed via Buycycling and the major manufacturers. I am starting to detect a minor shift in this attitude and that is a good thing. I always shake my heads at friends that I ride with that drop 2500 or 3000 on a mass produced carbon or alum wonder, and haven't even a bit of exposure to what is available from the Masters, like Bruce Gordon, Richie, et al. I do my best to spread the word, while myself lacking the sufficent funds to buy a full custom. I do expect I will within a year or two, though, thus putting my money where my mouth is. I have met so many great builders at the Cirque and love their work, it will be difficult to pick one. One thing that has not been mentioned, I think, is that there are choices now that haven't been there before. Bruce mentioned that his non-lugged touring bike orders are down. I remember when if you wanted a great touring bike, the RocknRoad was THE bike to buy, and likely the only one. Now there are other good choices, and this is a direct result of the roads paved by Bruce and others. Rivendell has built a buisness on more than just custom frames, while still promoting the beauty of lugs and steel. A hand-made 'production' bike by Riv is filling my 'custom' void until I can get one. And this too gives me the chance to discuss with Trek riders why they need to look at and consider getting a fine hand-made machine, instead of the disposable bike they are riding. I do hope the current boom will produce more opportunities for all you great builders to get the exposure you need to sell enough to keep building. Ron Gurth Carmel, IN
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