Thank you MicaelW. I was on the Sram web site today and am starting to lean that way. One thing I am finding attractive is that Sram offers a freewheel version, as well as both roller and coaster type brakes. I've seen some bikes with the Shimano hub and I'm beginning to believe that it might be best to eschew the hub stoppers altogether, in favor of a simpler setup with cantilever or V brakes - especially when it comes time to fix the inevitable flat on my way to work. I’m even considering the 5 speed over the seven. According to the legendary Sheldon Brown’s web page, it matches the gear spread of the Shimano 7 and is lighter than either the Shimano or the Sram 7. That’s if you can call 2.7 lbs light.