I think that what value, importance, and appreciation, we as knowledgable collectors and enthusiasts 'attach' to classic bikes, is generally in large part a manifestation of the spirit or *soul* that was originally put into them by their creators. You sound as if you think that making things that have a longevity of appeal is done simply by cut and dry techniques. I would reason that going to the lengths to make something that remains practical and beautiful through the ages, is a lot more work than just that, and motivation is a relevant part of the equation. If it were so easy to define, more people would be doing it.
Dennis Young Hotaka, Japan
>
> "Many on this list consider fine bicycles to be some sort of an art =
> form. If
> that is the case, you cannot limit the discussion to the finished =
> product
> while ignoring the process. On the other hand, if the things are just
> bikes - "things" with no heart & no soul - well then you are correct."=20
>
> I was under the impression that bikes were "things" with no heart and =
> soul. Whatever soul they have is only what we as humans and bike =
> collectors (hopefully in that order) attach to them.
>
> I'd be interested, though, for you to define (OFFLIST!!) what you think =
> soul is in relation to a bike.
>
> In the meantime, please try to steer clear of mentioning the word a**. =
> We've been here so many times before on the list and ended up back where =
> we started.=20
>
> Bru