on 4/22/03 11:19 PM, Donald Gillies at gillies@cs.ubc.ca wrote:
" here is why i think that japanese makers and japanese parts get no respect. The european frame makers and component companies, especially campagnolo but also stronglight and cinelli, evoke a "passion" for bicycle design and styling. the parts and frames are a work of art. i'd like to see pictures of just one japanese frame or component set that comes close to being a work of art.."
But wait a minute Don, have you ever seen a Watanabe or a Toei Stag up close? There are a slew of Japanese framebuilders that do wonderful work although little of it is ever seen over here. You can't compare cheap Japanese production frames with the best of Europe. There are plenty of cheap, hideous bikes from every country, including this one.
In the early/mid 80's I was in Milan 3-4 times a year in the bicycle business. At that time you could find Colnagos being cranked out of a number of hack sub-contractors and the bikes were terrible. Rossin was another that was sub-contracted everywhere and with little regard for quality. Sure, these are counterpoints to the many great builders, but my point is that it is a mixed bag in every country and that Japan does have builders that belong up with the best of them. You just never get a chance to see their stuff unless you are lucky enough to go to Japan.
Mark Bulgiers website has pictures of a Toei Stag that you ought to check out. It may be that one picture you are looking for.
BB
Bryant Bainbridge
Portland Orygun