On the subject of our pastime and the collecting and restoring the
older classic bikes. The recent years we have seen vast changes in
the manufacturing of frames and complete bikes with the steel
frame and polished accessories gradually been overtaken by
modern plastic /carbon materials. It is a sad time when the we have
to accept there is no going back to the days of the traditional bike as
we know it. Apart from the few still dedicated traditional frame builders
the feeling of been once a proud owner of popular make is all but gone.
I often wonder what the future holds for our pastime with the modern
design in manufacturing and why did these changes have to be made.
To me there is no way one can compare the new with the old which
stood the test of time for nearly over a century. I can only sit back and
think of all those skilled engineers who us the opportunity to enjoy the
years of proper bikes , which leaves me wondering was all their efforts
in vain! So look after those "oldies" because there are not around
anymore.
Doug Smith
North Dorset
UK