Thoughts

I’ve been making modifications to a frame for a local rider. The frame was built by a now-out-of-business local guy whose frames have a bit of a cult following around here. Now, I know I’m still pretty new to the building thing, and I’ve only learned the methods imparted to me by my teacher, but I was highly unimpressed with what I looked at. I’m not going to name names, of course. From my perspective the things that were done were done in the name of speeding-up production — something from a business perspective is essential.

A shortcut that compromises the lifespan of the frame, however, is unacceptable. Earlier this year, in another blog, I wrote about a fillet brazed tandem that I saw that was rotting away from the inside-out, a symptom of poor ventilation strategy. The bike I’m working on is very similar. When I return it to the owner, I’ll be discussing with him the best ways to lengthen the lifespan of his bike.

I just don’t understand why a builder would sacrifice the overall quality and lifespan of his work to save 15-30 minutes. What gives?