  We describe the pitfalls encountered in deducing from classical double radio
source observables (luminosity, spectral index, redshift and linear size) the
essential nature of how these objects evolve. We discuss the key role played by
hotspots in governing the energy distribution of the lobes they feed, and
subsequent spectral evolution. We present images obtained using the new 74 MHz
receivers on the VLA and discuss constraints which these enforce on models of
the backflow and ages in classical doubles.
