Originally Posted by Phil_gretz

You know, acidfast7, I've re-read the thread and better understand what you're trying to show with this experiment. I think that my last response was over the top, and I apologize for the challenging tone that it took. My bad.

Your question was whether the original owner could really tell the difference between seemingly similar bikes...and I think that I'd respond "it depends". Sometimes the differences between how the bikes are set up (whether hubs are binding, or whether the chain line is off) can create a perceptible difference.

And further, much depends on the sensitivity and experience of the rider - at least in terms of the subjective aspects of whether a bike feels "lively" or "responsive". I know that I can tell the difference between the feel of bikes that I own and ride on the road. I have another bike, a middle-of-the-road 1980s road bike, that has really nice sealed bearing hubs laced to original rims. It is a joy to ride. I can't explain it - it's not the frame, per se, but the combination that is out of this world...

Anyway, I hope that you enjoy your bike and continue to get satisfactory use from it. I'd be interested if you do have component wear or other issues that crop up with its continued use.

Again, sorry about the combative tone. It wasn't called for. Phil G.