Re: [CR]was? JAPENESE (sic) COLLECTORS off topic a bit

(Example: Framebuilders:Brian Baylis)

From: <DTSHIFTER@aol.com>
Date: Sun, 23 Feb 2003 15:02:24 EST
Subject: Re: [CR]was? JAPENESE (sic) COLLECTORS off topic a bit
To: recycle@wmni.net, classicrendezvous@bikelist.org


In a message dated 2/23/03 1:15:24 PM, recycle@wmni.net writes:

<< We should be applauding the high roller as the tide raises all boats,

unless your in cement shoes.

Where would our hobby be if you could go down to the bike shop and get

new Swift saddle's for $28 ? How about new Raleigh Pro's for $175?

Didn't these prices seem high back then, does anyone remember the bike

that was just out of reach? @ $1.25 / hr. it took a huge comitment

then. Why should it be different now? >>

David,

I think I've heard it said that "a rising tide lifts all yachts!!"

To wonder where our hobby would be if prices were low and items were easily found; I suppose many of us would have different hobbies, but this is just speculation as it depends on why we have a certain hobby in the first place?

I do remember wanting a Raleigh Pro or a Cinelli in 1971. I had to settle for a PX-10 which was $200.00 while the Pro was $525.00 and, heaven forbid, the Cinelli was $795.00!!! These were princely sums in those days, and for comparison, I was driving a three year old Saab 96 which cost me $900 (and it was in pretty nice shape)!

So the Raleigh and the Cinelli were more than just "out of reach" but it didn't change my desire any!!! I still don't have a Cinelli, and I sold the Pro to Larry Osborn last year. Sadder still, I rode so much more back in those days :-(

Regards,

Chuck Brooks
Malta, NY