EHBE 2010 Build off

Show down in Schwäbisch Gmünd; 20 paces @ dawn.

At last year’s EHBE Kris Vacheron and I met. We soon found out we where regular visitors to each others webpages. During the show, possibly influence by a couple glasses of wine, we figured it would be nice to have build off for next year’s show. It didn’t take long to finalize the plans. Also didn’t take long for the word to spread. It started as an idea between two friends and ended up in… well a full blown build off. (check: www.e-h-b-e.eu)

The rules of engagement:

EHBE Framebuilder Build Off 2010, revision 2
Show Down at Schwäbisch Gmünd; 20 paces @ dawn.

Christoph Vacheron (Julie Racing Design, France) vs. Caspar Drenth (le Cadre custom bicycles, Holland)

Scope
The Build Off’s intention is to have a friendly competition between two friends and to increase the flow of creative ideas and solutions. To showcase the possibilities of the two builders entered in this competition. To give EHBE visitors an opportunity to see what effort goes into building a bicycle and finally see it at the show.

Rules
1. Builders entered in this competition may NOT be helped by other builders.
2. Fabrication must be mainly done in the builders own workshop.
3. Specialty parts may be ordered or specially made for this project by others.
4. The design and fabrication of the bicycle must showcase the builders specific skills and ideas.
5. The design of the bicycle must be made by the builder himself.
6. The complete assembled bicycle must be presented at EHBE 2010.
7. A periodic photo report must be submitted to the EHBE organization. (period interval to be determined)
8. A time table is to be set before the start of the competition. This time table has to be approved by both builders.
9. If one of the builders is overcome by difficulties he may be helped by the other builder in the competition or the other builder may give him permission to deviate from the rules.
10. At the show a photo report is to be present at the bicycle showing the full build process.

Competition theme
The builder must build a bicycle in the Randonneuse* theme. The builders are free to interpret this theme as they see fit or to suite their specific skills and ideas.

Time table
Both builders have to fit this competition in with other work and occupations. Therefore the competitions timetable it divided in sections.
1. Rules to be approved by both builders and submitted to EHBE organization (Indra).
2. Time Table to be set and approved by both builders.
3. Start of competition, rough build of frame. (start:1-1-2010; finish 1-2-2010)
4. Frame finishing . (start: 1-2-2010; finish 1-3-2010)
5. Optional parts manufacturing. (start: 1-3-2010; finish 1-4-2010)
6. Paint and optional other coatings.
7. Final assembly and show preparations.(before: EHBE 2010?)
8. Revealing the bicycle at the SHOW (EHBE 2010)

*a randonneuse bicycle is a bicycle used to go places, usually light and efficient but not necessarily. Can carry essentials, capable of riding on a variety of surfaces. Can even be used for daily transport.


I really appreciate what Kris does. He is the kind of builder that goes by heart and doesn’t think about making a profit. The result is a one of a kind solutions and some really wild looking bikes. He is working hard on developing his own style and has gained international respect among builders and the public. And he deserves it.

Check my blog regularly to have an update on the progress. Also check Kris’ blog julieracingdesig.canalblog.com and both our Flickr pages. flickr.com/photos/krisjulie and le Cadre: flickr.com/photos/lecadre

Have fun and I hope to see you at the unveiling at the 2010 EHBE show in May.