merckx":18864m8f said:
BOTM could be moderated much more heavily. if we didn't have 3 pages of two blokes reminding us how much they know about the history of brand XYZ it would be much better. there should only be the pictures of the entry bikes, and description from the owners of the bikes. everything else is irrelevant to the voting competition
Agreed, big a fan as I am of Sinnermans quality builds, the pages of sycophantic canvassing that supported the JMC tribute left me reaching for both the sick bucket and the phone number of Mit Romneys campaign team, who clearly needed the assistance of a professional vote winner.
1 entry as per the rules, then commentary from the entrant to a minimum.
In answer to the initial question, is it too elitist? No it isn't it is a show, Just as a morris minor can win best of show at a vintage car rally, a Saracen, Raleigh or Marin etc stands equal chance of winning the BOTM.
I guess in my mind the issue comes down to the criteria people themselves impose on the vote. Some vote for originality others because they just like the bike, others seemingly because its worn out and knackered from years of use by the same person.
If there are not enough people that value things in the same way you do, you won't see your winner win. But don't blame the competition for the rules that you personally apply to it.