I admit I've been lusting over a Rivendell Hilbourne for the last several weeks. The problem is that I can't really justify the absolute need at present. I am perfectly happy with my Synapse for training, organized rides, etc. What I'm thinking about using the Riv for would be some light touring, commuting and possibly some brevets next year.
Am I losing my mind? I keep questioning my sanity, I think largely because of the cost, although money really isn't a problem. Should I just pull the trigger? I appreciate everyone's input, but I think all is lost already. the Rivendell allure is too strong of an attraction!

I've passed this question on to the Higher Authorities.

Their response:

Go for it.

Have you not heard the old saying: "you can NEVER have too many bikes"?

What's so bad about losing your mind? What components are you going to put on your new Sam Hillbourne?

Just think of it as your contribution to the economic stimulus of your town, besides isn't N+1 mandatory?

I'm planning on pretty much going on their recommendations. The sample build is 9 speed, Campy cranks,Dura Ace Bar Ends and Shimano XT der's. I'm not familiar with these components, as I've always ridden road bikes with Ultegra. Hope to get the same basic grade of components on this bike.

Since you don't seem to be in a hurry, why not have a local builder make you a frame?

How about www.cohobicycles.com, in Franklin County, North Carolina.

Have never ridden one, but the bikes have a good reputation, and the builder does some fairly serious riding himself.

This is a little much...

OT Question:

What's the trick of getting your image in a post full size?

Don't want to engage in a thread-jack but I can't seem to get a picture posted so the viewer can see it with out clicking on it to enlarge it.

Oh BengeBoy, now you have really done it! Adding additional buying options to the OP's current dilemma is cruel. I am also struggling with the N+1 challenge for a similar bike. I am not sure how much longer I can resist, but I owe my better half a nice present for her 50th bday next month so the bike will need to wait.

Mark

So you only have one bike that does everything- Hilly rides- Local commuting- Century rides- Tuesday night with the local club for a quick 30 miler at 25mph average.

Then there are the days when You pull it out of the shed- and hear a squeak that is brake rub on the out of true rim- The mates have come round and the rear has a puncture- and the Slight problem you had on the check up ride on saturday evening before the big ride on Sunday has turned into something major and the LBS is shut.

Plenty of reasons for N+XXX so don't even think about the negatives.

Take it the Synapse has been your main ride for a while and there are probably be a few changes you could make if the incentive was there.

And look at the use that you could put the Hillbourne to. That should tell you what components to fit. Personally- if you are happy with Ultegra I would stay with it- but possibly look at the gearing to make it suitable for the future use.- Touring and you will probably be looking at a triple- Heavy touring and still a triple but possibly with 48/36/24 chainrings. One thing I would definitely get sorted though is a Decent set of wheels.

With N+1 you could possibly get your dream bike------Or that may be on the next bike- or the next one.

You will never regret have a sports/touring bike like a Rivendell Hilbourne. You might end up liking it more than the Synapse.

Since you are Florida, I suggest:

https://www.terrafermacycles.com/index-html.htm

ahsposo--how did you get a picture of my bikes?

You didn't even miss the ones I took, did you?

If you won't be late on the mortgage because of the purchase go for it. Why do you work so hard? To have money to buy things. Enjoy your Rivendell. That's the one I lust after at this point. but first is an RB-1 frame to build........................

ahsposo: I might have, but I was out looking to buy a 'new' one.

No, that's a goal!

I did it! Should receive next week.

Not enough info!!!

So what running gear- wheels- colour and anything else we should know.