I am a frequent reader of CR, rarely consider myself worthy of having much to contribute, and am reluctant to join in on this discussion. Messrs. Cone and Nobilette have sterling reputations, and others who have chimed with favorable responses are similarly noteworthy. Yet I find myself disturbed by the proposition of building bikes with the name of a builder gone from the scene. My concerns are that: 1. Many members of the list usually place a high value on authenticity; 2. M. Herse is not able to contribute his opinions to a product bearing his name. Even though the product will undoubtedly be of extremely high quality, there will be questions within this range of quality about which outstanding constructeurs might disagree, and I would favor (to the extent that my opinion means anything, anyway) not using the name of one who cannot speak to such matters. 3. There might be even more cachet, and marketability, in building a Cone-Nobilette line of bicycles, a line building upon venerable standards, and extending them consistent with newer knowledge and materials.
I hope these remarks are not out-of-line or seem in any way disrespectful, as I am in awe of the idea of even attempting to maintain such traditions and standards and will follow developments with eagerness.
Regards,
Richard Elliott
Macon, Georgia
USA