NOTE TO DARIO

Dario, I hope that is not too forward of me to address you so. While as a civil servant I have never been able to afford the purchase of one of you fine frames I have been dreaming. To my mind, and obviously yours, something that simply "works" is not enough, if it is worth doing, it is worth doing beautifully. When we live like this then there is nothing to hide, even if we are silent, our soul is there for those with eyes to see. Your creations are not only bring inspiration to ride but force us to consider where does function end and art begin? Know that you are in many thoughts and prayers.

John S., Pennsylvania

Mr. Pegoretti: I met you last year at Interbike and spoke with you briefly about your beautiful bikes. I'm sorry to hear of your illness and wish you a speedy recovery and continued success in cycling. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers and look forward to your return to cycling.

Walt Downey, San Diego, CA

My Marcelo and I wish you absolutely the very best. Thanks, --Sam

Sam, St. Louis

Hello Dario, I wish you all the best, and hope that you will recover soon. Keep up the spirit, and beware that after rain shines the sun. Best wishes from the Netherlands PS The picture is the same frameset, only build off with Campagnolo of course (emozione). grace

MiketheBike, Utrecht

Dario, Hope this note finds you in good spirits. The Palosanto is by far the best bike I've ever owned, and your frames stand out more and more for their simple elegance and handbuilt sensibility, a reflection of their builder. Like you of late, steel can be repaired!

Vernon Ross, Washington, DC

Dear Dario, All the best wishes and support for you to conquer this challenge. Life without bicycles would be sad, but a bicycle without life is meaningless. Fight your battle as you choose, but know that many of us wish to fight it with you. May you brighten this world in your way for many years to come. Forza!

Paul, Seattle

Ciao Dario, In bocca al lupo!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Sei sempre nei nostri pensieri! 4 Cimini

Ralph/Domenica/Stefano/Rosalie Cimino, Houston TX

Thanks for all you've done over the years and best of luck in the future from all of those who you've helped teach that having fun is the most important part of the ride. Even though my bike was made on an assembly line in Taiwan I always pretend it has some that Italian flair to it. Sure we all do this because we like to ride hard but if we can't be exuberant about it sometimes then what's the point?

Stephen W, Springfield, MO

This is my second summer riding a Duende. It is a wonderful bicycle. Everyone that sees it is astounded by its beauty and craftsmanship. I am sorry to hear about your illness and hope you have a full recovery!

Don Kiphart, Santa Fe, NM

Hello Dario. I am saddened to hear of your illness but want you to know I am thinking about you and hoping for you. I am a cancer survivor and a cyclist, and fought cancer during 1995. I lost my hamstring muscle in my right leg and was told I would never walk, run, or cycle the same way again. Baloney, I said. I accepted my treatment, but like you said, I combated my illness whenever possible "on my own terms". Even after high dose chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery to remove the muscle, I have since done century rides and can cycle farther and faster than before I was diagnosed. I wish you a speedy recovery and make sure to keep tabs on those doctors and what they are doing. Medicine is "practice", like they say, and is not perfect. Learn as much as you can and embrace life and do not let the treatment get you down or stifle your life. Keep going and you will be amazed at how strong and resilient the human body really is. God bless.

John Thomas Jr.