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frame schedule and the upcoming
Lugged Roadini.
The Rivendell product schedule is like a fever dream.
So many variations on one theme -- or maybe two themes. Go-fast yet comfortable, which are the most interesting bikes to me (Roadini, Gallop, AHH, maybe Sam), plus the long step-through bikes, which I'd have to try one to see what I'm missing. They started showing up, what, a decade ago, and I lose track how many iterations have been built.
I'm not against step-through, it just doesn't solve any problems for me. The recent 'string test' video showing how flexy Clem & Co get under load was a real eye opener. I would have predicted a small fraction of the movement shown. And in typical Riv fashion, they point out it's "unscientific" testing -- looked pretty good to me -- and then show exactly what they found. You have to respect that kind of integrity. I'm pushing 200 lbs. ready to ride and I don't want my bike to flex that much. Diamond frames for me, and chain stays 46 cm and shorter.
Given the choice, I'll take lugged over TIG'd also, but I wouldn't spend much time worrying about it. Aesthetics are good, but I ride to ride. That's a lot of effort to make Roadini version 2. I'm really surprised by that. It's not like welded frames are weaker.
Sometimes the Riv model carousel is reminiscent of the car industry in the 60s, with models updating every year. Judging by the purchasing habits of this group, it's a sound strategy ;)
I continue to be intrigued and baffled by Rivendell. I'm a regular parts customer and their products have made my riding more pleasant. But some of their orthodoxy doesn't do it for me. Like riding without padded shorts, to which I returned early this year, and which worked great for long, cool rides... until I hit a muggy day and spent forty miles sandpapering the backs of my legs with soggy cotton. Not fun, two weeks to heal, and nobody's fault but mine. So much learning.
I'll stop this rant and go ride my bike.
cheers -mathias