[CR]Parting Out

(Example: Framebuilding:Technology)

Date: Sun, 15 Jul 2007 23:46:56 +0000 (GMT)
From: <gholl@optonline.net>
To: Classic Rendezvous <classicrendezvous@bikelist.org>
Subject: [CR]Parting Out

When, not too long ago, I first began to have serious interest in restoring vintage bikes, I too thought that "parting out" bikes seemed somewhat reprehensible. But, when later I needed to purchase parts to complete bikes, the process seemed more much more acceptable, especially when I knew that there was no way I would ever be able to finalize a certain restoration project. Having said that, I imagine that everything has its limits, and the wanton destruction of a complete important or unique bike (and I'm sure that definition of such bikes would be difficult) probably is wrong in some sense. Parting out partially damaged, or incomplete bikes doesn't seem to be a problem. The issue is further complicated by an individual's right to dispose of his/her own property-unless a bike is legally entailed (and this must be limited to museum donations, etc.) what's to prevent someone from parting it out? The owner could even argue that many other bikes are made complete by the disassembling of one. Parting out is certainly a thorny issue.

George Hollenberg MD Westport, CT, USA

George Hollenberg MD
CT, USA