Just to clarify: I have no hidden agenda, no motivation other than I truly do not believe spherical suspension bearings meet either the letter or the spirit of the rules. I can find no redeeming value in these parts within the philosophy of Improved Touring.

Please note that I'm reading all these responses, but I have nothing further of value to offer. Andy, Jeff, and Earl are doing a fine job of expressing my sentiments exactly.

Try this: clear your mind of what you know and what you've seen. I tell you that bushing material is free, and you cannot change anything unless it's specifically allowed. How can you possibly justify spherical bearings?

In listening to those trying to support it, I remain unconvinced; this is a classic case of incrementalism, of "just one small step past one small step past one small step". Of the classic Dewhurst rules CREEP. - GA