Unfortunately, I think the result would be very average overall. Each builder does things just differently enough that the overall "feel" would be compromised. The result would be a very nice very bland collaboration. Dare I say it--like an american Masi or Whitcomb. Wonderful in it's own right, but not as great as one built by the individual.
I'd also bet that most of the builders wouldn't be able to pick a "best" frame they've done, since each is built for a different person or use. I'll go out on a limb, and guess that to Richard Sachs, his best frame is his next one(sorry If I'm way off base)
Someone elses idea of an amateur build off could give the experienced guys quit a hoot though. I can just imagine the comments -he's not going to do that is he!? He did !
Steve Birmingham Lowell,Ma
Original message: Date: Wed, 15 Dec 2004 13:12:07 -0500 From: "Stephen Barner" <steve@sburl.com>
Lots of problems with the concept of a "Build-Off" have been raised, not the least of which being that the KOF guys no doubt have little or no interest in such an event. Building frames is something they do in their shops, and their shops don't move very often.
However, an approach that has been used in writing involves each writer getting a shot at a serial, developing and redirecting it as each writer sees fit. Could this approach be taken with a frame? I could see an initial team decision as to geometry and materials, with the kit passing from builder to builder at least thrice. Once for the builder to work his particular area, the second to braze the area on the assembled frame, and the final to do the finish metalwork. The key would be to add the signature details and expression of that particular builder, while keeping some unity to the whole. The final paintwork could be done by someone known for that specialty and not so much for building--like Joe Bell.
The advantage is that each artisan would be doing the work in his or her own shop with familiar tools and working it into the work schedule as is convenient. And wouldn't you just love to own that bike!
--Steve Barner, Bolton, Vermont, where we had close to a foot of snow and 5
degree F. temps this am. Eat your heart out eChuckie!