Yeh i would very much like to see a very good or even superior copy. That would require a totalled frame as an example or otherwise borrowing a good condition BF in order to at least get some eye-balling and measurements in. If you do manage an improved version for a reasonable cost i would no longer ever buy a BF! Just make sure i support them by maybe buying special BF components like Panniers, mudguards etc etc! I hope you get on it! I REALLY hope you clinch it! Do you have any clue as to the material costs involved (Chromo tubing etc.)..?

As for the Surly thang, well i am very happy with that result. I have yet to hear a reply on my own mail from anyone. Surly excells at great value and bullet proff frames. But that has always meant their frames are a little heavy. I hope if the make a BF type frame that it will be almost as light and fold well at a reasonable cost.

Even if nothing more comes from this than a wake up call to a few cool companies then it is a very good thing.