I first met Richard Sachs around 1976 at the New York Cycle Show.  I was in high school, just beginning to learn about racing and how to "speak" Campagnolo.  A neophyte was I, but when I saw Richard's frames, it was easy to see why those "in the know" admired his craftsmanship.  I did not think I was ready for such a great custom frame. 

Fast-forward some 20+ years later — numerous English, Italian and American bikes later.  It was spring of 1997 and I began thinking about a new frame, maybe titanium, maybe steel, maybe custom.  While on a Saturday morning club ride, I admired a friend's C-Record equipped anniversary De Rosa, and we discussed my dilemma.  He told me that had just ordered a Richard Sachs 25th Anniversary frameset.  Memories of Richard's frames danced in my head for the rest of the ride. 

After the weekend, I called Richard.  We discussed the merits of steel vs.  titanium, ride quality, functionality, beauty, frame weight, etc.  Richard explained his hand-building methods, mentioned his 25th Anniversary frameset and said he would send off a brochure and some articles.  When they arrived a few days later, I knew I had made up my mind, and sent Richard my deposit.  Truth is, I wanted a lugged frame. 

It was quite some before I got up to Chester to get measured for my frame.  Richard spent a few hours showing me his frames, his shop and his cycling treasures.  Several months and updates by phone and e-mail later, the frame arrived at my home in perfect shape. 

This is frameset 20 of 25.  It is a bit different from other 25th Anniversary framesets, crafted by Richard with his Anniversary Replica lugs, after hearing me gush about lugs.  It is the second RS frame I own.  While waiting for Richard to build my frame, I had the opportunity to purchase from Richard his personal road frame.  It was very close to my size and had just come back from JB with a new coat of paint.  It has standard size tubing, DuBois lugs and Richard's customary detail.  It is beautiful, and has not yet been built up.  It may never be.  How often does one get to be the custodian of something so personal to a master's craft?

Good things do come to those who wait.  The beauty of what Richard achieves is yin and yang -- when I am not on my bike, I cannot help but see its beauty, simplicity and detail, yet when I ride it, it's not there -- it disappears beneath me.  What else can I say? Richard Sachs is in the details. 

Get one, and you will understand.  Just don't wait too long!