@ Pw_pw_la Think you nailed it first para. I have owned and ridden most of the iconic retro bikes having worked in the trade and when riding with a big regular possy around Epping Forest bitd. There was seemingly plenty of money ( a 15yr old on new circa £4k 93 Manitou FS ) and rare US import bikes getting a regular hammering around there. Lazy lunchs, tea and cake breaks meant bike swops and proper test comparisons were made - loved this. I remember a Yoof trials jumping my T Max up all over a burned out Maxi and not being worried about it snapping
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Being OCD by nature I was always looking for the ultimate ride. If I have learned one thing on RB over the years, its that the power of marketing and nostalgia far outweighs looks or a frame/bikes performance. Nobody really cares about ride reports but unsurprisingly a good showing in BOTM is highly coveted. As an aside, I have noticed a big increase in groups of guys out riding not only in London but in Herts these days. Its all modern but its just nice to see people out actually riding in this glorious weather. Its all cycling at the end of the day.