it’s the KHS solo one that I’ve been eyeing that has the 520 reynolds frame-not the Raleigh.

Thanks for the reply Ted, and yeah-final product matters the most in terms of how we assess it’s value/ performance not point of origin-

Yet…
Country of origin matters to me (and other consumers as well–though not enough in my opinion– which is why REDLINE made sure to include ‘welded in Japan’ in the promo–) not just as an assessment of quality–but of course, geopolitically–Lot’s of folks, like one of the earlier posts, erroneously lump Taiwan in with China (including the Government of China!)-but of course, Taiwan-Like Japan, Europe, North America and Oceania is part of the democratic, open-market 1st world-and whenever possible I do my dang-dest to purchase from these nations-though, it’s sometimes near impossible (like Buying Kids shoes!–though, I can still get Canadian made winter boots for the boys). I’m not a Buy American chauvinist-but rather a buy 1st world, regulated open-market, fair trade/ labor, democratic globalist.

Anyway-welded in Japan works for me!

And-just like the Raleigh I’m stoked to see disc brakes showing up on these bargain SS!

Typically, if you can communicate effectively, you can get whatever quality level you want in Asia. I don’t see lumping in “Chinese made”, “Taiwanese made”, or “Japanese made” into certain categories as being wise or helpful in determining quality of work. Each piece must stand on it’s own merits, regardless of country of origin, ya know?

To answer your question about other frames made in Japan, take a look at the Rivendell site, which features a few very nicely made models that are hand crafted in Japan. Very nice stuff.

Are the tubes made in Japan or just welded there (follow up-where are the tubes made).

What other frames are welded in Japan anyway (I mean-is there a reason to think this is better than Taiwan–which isn’t to be confused with the People’s Republic)?

Does look great–how’s Raleigh’s frameset measure up (it’s a lower grade Reynold-520)?

Liam