There seems to be a misconception within the public's thoughts that the only quality parts out on the market are expensive. Is it because there aren't as many backyard fabricators as there used to be who are willing to put a little elbow grease into their creations? I'm talking about the guys who make parts that perform perfectly and fit without any modifications - all in their own garages. They make sure that the part fits and works properly, then, they consider how the parts look. While I love the fact that some people can build a bike in their garages without having to get out any kind of metal working tools, I think some people are getting lazy and accepting what they can purchase instead of creating something more functional and unique on their own.
I worry that this trend could hurt the number of innovations in the industry because people won't be trying to make parts that are truly one-off. The sad thing is that it is not that difficult, just a little time consuming - good parts take some time to develop. Fortunately, it can be very profitable if you follow through with your ideas. Think about how many guys started out tinkering in their garages and ended up at the top of the industry (can you say Arlen Ness?). But first thing's first, there is a process each person has to go through to get parts out there. You have to realize it is a good idea, then offer it to the public and possibly make a profit from a hard-earned, planned idea.
I take the most pride from the things I created that started out as an idea in my head. I have spoken with many people that are doing well for themselves, who started out making parts, and I have done what I can to follow their advice. I have been told that once you have an idea, it is best to make a visual representation so that you can see what the part is instead of verbally describing it to other people. It doesn't matter what you sketch the idea on, but get it on something (unfortunately, ideas have slipped my mind by the time I decided to write them down, so now I keep a pad of paper and a pen within an arm's reach as often as possible). Once sketched, figure out dimensions that you think will work and then go make a mock-up with clay (or metal or wood) depending on what the idea is, and from there, you make the first prototype. Build a few slightly different prototypes and present them to people in the industry you know you can trust that will help you by constructively criticizing your work. Then, make those revisions to the design of your prototype and finally, make a small production run. Put your part on your bike and ask your friends if they want one on theirs. Not only will they get a cool part for free, but you get to test your product and everyone that sees the part might become interested. From there, you'll know where your idea can go as far as selling the product is concerned from your use and your friends' feedback.
You could start a revolution in the industry, but you'll never know unless you try. And I don't mean just one or two of you should do it, I think everybody has great ideas out there; some people are just scared that other riders and builders might not like the idea. If you've ever spent any time with a cutting torch or a wrench in your hand, I am absolutely positive you've said to yourself, "If I just changed this on this part, or if I just had something that looked like this, instead of like that, it would be so much cooler and work better, too." I just think that so many people would benefit if they would just step up and take the initiative to create something new. I know how hard it is to spend your evenings after working an eight to 10 hour day on refining the construction of a new part. I know it takes some long hours and not every idea works, but if you keep at it, eventually people start to notice, as will the industry and the buying public. The only thing that is stopping you is you.
Ride hard and make something happen.