I was already thinking this, and when I last had a set built specifically the amazing mechanic in my lbs did it on a saturday morning, and I drank tea and watched, over twenty years ago, what it cost me was relative to how long it would take me and him building them with experience knowing I was going to abuse them, and it was money well spent as they were strong. I saw that distinction as he knew me, had seen what I did to bikes etc.. he would of been a little older than I am now I guess, so it was old news to him!?!
I think the important distinction to make is between re using secondhand obsolete parts you have owing to cost of the hobby etc, Which is where I am at.. and the learning new skills, if the pedigree of parts, or end use befit your level of engineering commitment that is very different to me and my level of pottering about on twenty year old bikes that are not worth a whole lot really...
I dont race or attempt to subvert gravity any longer!
Same as any vocation, I hope others come along you can share your experience with and not regret it, as like so many things the real skills are passed on, not taught in a book or classroom.
I hate when people don't take everything into account, and its a shame to hear of people taking the piss, hopefully anyone reading your reply will keep this in mind, if your customers are loyal you are doing it right, I was loyal to my local shop until his service took a nose dive , and his amazing mechanic left.. that's when bikes were added to the list of things I buy tools and teach myself which nowadays is almost everything as good service is not common place.
)
