what is it with bl**dy Kona's ??

[Elev12k]

In my perception the success of the Asian mass production (implemented in Japan 1st) is for a substantial part due to continuing improvements in processes and not because of strict quality control. When something goes not 100% the process is stopped and the necessary adjustment made.

Result is they end up with steady quality and minimal waste.

Below topic discusses the easthetics of detailing not visible The most exquisite expression of quality? It is focussing on higher end builders in US, Europe and Japan.

http://www.bikefanclub.com/forum/showfl ... /Main/5183

 

[Elev12k]

I fear to tread on the experienced Fat aficionados here, but didn't Chris Chance try to take the company in a similar direction by moving to Saratoga?

Chris spent a lot on SaB and Ti FAT. Financially FAT wasn't always lead so well. Debts were substantial. Chris didn't want to sell out or merge, but in the end he couldn't resist. It was a tough, very tough way that lead to this decission. Moreover I don't think having Serotta built FATs is a cheap way of outsourcing. Serotta is in the same league. Economics lay in the merger itself.

 

[andrewl]

In some cases the quality control on a cheap Taiwanese frame is better than that of some specialist US builders too.

Should probably read "In most cases the quality control on a Taiwanese frame is better than that of most specialist US builders too."

Well I didn't want to offend too many people

 

[scant]

I fear to tread on the experienced Fat aficionados here, but didn't Chris Chance try to take the company in a similar direction by moving to Saratoga?

Chris spent a lot on SaB and Ti FAT. Financially FAT wasn't always lead so well. Debts were substantial. Chris didn't want to sell out or merge, but in the end he couldn't resist. It was a tough, very tough way that lead to this decission. Moreover I don't think having Serotta built FATs is a cheap way of outsourcing. Serotta is in the same league. Economics lay in the merger itself.

yeh I've gotta step in here as well. set the record straight. I know the full story from wendyl, most of which cant be shared info. BUT, FAT moved to stay alive. This wasnt a move to a cheaper labour pool, IE taiwan. serotta is obviously in the US & makes some of the most expensive frames made! so yeh ditto Elev12K.

now, back to the kona rant <pulls up chair again>

 

[dookie]

did someone say kona rant?

my kona was handmade in the US, and trust me, it *is* a bike to lust after. i believe that the taiwanese robots build an inferior product, but as has been said before...this is a retro forum and retro konas are, well, hot.

 

[messiah]

In some cases the quality control on a cheap Taiwanese frame is better than that of some specialist US builders too.

Should probably read "In most cases the quality control on a Taiwanese frame is better than that of most specialist US builders too."

Well I didn't want to offend too many people

Amusing... in 1995 the Kona HOT frame made by TET that was sent to the shop for me had a problem with the rear dropouts which prevented fitting a wheel - we ended up sending it back.

The Explosif I bought instead is the one I still I have...