I’ve long been drawn to Brit bikes, largely because of the culture of cycling and frame building that existed through the first half or so of the 20th century (and am a member of the New England chapter of the Veteran-Cycle Club). I’ve never actually owned an Italian frame, partially because I associate them with racing and skinny tires, which I have no interest in, partially because of their popularity to others. These days, most of what I’m riding regularly is made in Taiwan or China (with the exception of a Brit bike from the 70s modified in Portland, OR, by an Italian-American).