Happy to report that my post about Bill Woodul's Russian team truing stand stimulated a bit of conversation among team mechanics. Jim Ingram (perennial motor driving wrench and former Campagnolo Support Program director) recalled that the Russian Federation shared a building with their Space Program. That must have generated a few interesting projects.
Rumor resurfaced and was confirmed that titanium versions of this tool were made. Ninja racing mechanic Brad Purfeest shared one he bought from a Russian Federation Director who was visiting the US for Masters Racing. Wow:
You can see the obvious similarities and small improvements on the stand Bill gave me. What is it about tools that transcend their purpose with beauty and zealous over-design? Like Hector Castillo said, "it's bike porn." In the healthy sense.
Similar beauty can be seen anywhere mechanics are expressing their passion for tools and compelling mechanisms. Racing motorcycles, South Bend or Graziano lathes, Snap On hand tools, we've all got our lists.
And some of the best the little gems are ones we find at flea markets and thrift shops.
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