At the risk of getting flamed here, I'll chime in.

Yes, life in general and the other reasons mentioned are likely factors. But there is another one that has not been mentioned: the C&V site itself is not what it once was.

How so? A couple of ways.

First, although there is still a bunch of cool stuff that appears and great info that gets shared, there has been, to my eye, a general drift toward lower-end stuff. Call me a snob or worse if you want, but I have no interest in UO-8's or Varsinentals or lower end Raleighs. There is nothing wrong with folks who like them, but that is not where my interests lie. And there has been less of the high-end rides that float my boat and more of the Bike Boom Specials that don't.

Second, the tone has gotten less friendly. Lord knows, it hasn't descended nearly to the ongoing nursery school recess that is the Road forum, and I wouldn't go so far as to say it is unfriendly overall, but there has been a change, and not for the better. I know I am not the only one who thinks so, but I won't rat out anyone else. They can rat themselves out, if they are so inclined.

So what's to be done about it? As for the first factor, nothing, I suppose. People will post what they will.

The second factor, however, is something that can be addressed. Remember that this is an area of BF that has always been about sharing info, encouraging newer members, and generally being able to be opinionated without being hostile. Most of us are pretty good about this most of the time, but a gentle reminder can never hurt.

Attacks on my parentage and general mental accuity coming in 5 . . . 4 . . . 3 . . .