Frank-
You are correct in that Archery is ever-evolving, and that everything is a "trend" at one point or another. However, some things "stay", and some do not. Twin cams have definately made their mark, and have realistically been altered little in 30 years except for the introduction of the hatchet cam and built-in wallbangers. The design has stood the test of time, and that is the only way we can really tell if something is here to stay or not. I can only make my "predictions" through my years of experience in the industry. (and of course my trusty crystal ball! <img src=icon_smile_big.gif border=0 align=middle>) None of us have all of the answers unless we can see into the future,(gotta get you one of them crystal balls, my friend! <img src=icon_smile_big.gif border=0 align=middle>) so we must look to how the history of fads and trends has been and what direction archery is heading to try and make an educated guess as to where it will go from here.
Conventional solos, for instance, have had many gremlins associated to them since their introduction, and manufacturers are now looking towards hybrid designs which will replace them. You will continue to see this trend in coming years, I'm sure of this. I consider the conmventional solos a "fad" that came on strong, but is not something that is here to stay.
Same with ultra-short ATA's IMO. Altho I shoot one(31"
and love it for treestand work, the majority of bowhunters are looking for a dual-purpose bow, something a little longer (33-36"
and with a little more brace, so they can not only use it for hunting, but for an occasional 3D as well. The longer ATA is more fiorgiving, and this seems to be where hunters are heading to as they become more educated about what is truly needed for practical hunting applications. I see these ultra short bows becoming a true "niche" bow, and eventually will more than likely fall by the wayside in favor of their slightly longer bretheren. (I'll still keep mine, but I have to call it as I see it)
Split limbs vs solid, machined risers vs cast, recurve limbs vs straight, reflex design vs deflex, as stated fads and trends are ever changing. This "trial and error" stage of newer designs and products simply helps us determine what works great and what does not, and altho we sometimes get all "wrapped up" in current designs, we must always keep an eye out for the next "wave" of things to come, and how they will effect our shooting and the industry.
I have still not found the "perfect bow", and feel that is still a ways off. I do however feel we have come a long way, and as long as we as dealers and consumers do not let the industry "sandbag" and stagnate, there will be even better things coming in the future. I for one look forward to testing all new products, and continue my search for the "perfect bow". Maybe someday! <img src=icon_smile_wink.gif border=0 align=middle> Good shooting, Pinwheel 12