Interesting read Beef! I agree with your first paragraph, italicized, in a big way. It seems as if new members may take much of what is posted here as a bit snobbish 'now' compared to even a year ago. I think it is nice to help keep things in check for all of us now and then. This isn't just "our" forum (i.e. regular members/posters) but everyone's forum who chooses to become a member and, hopefully, ride (or want to ride) a road bike.
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-\Brian
18' Landshark Tandem - Custom
15' Wabi Special Single-Speed Road
06' Cannondale Six13 TeamOne
06' Cannondale Prophet 3 "Lefty"
92' Trek 5200