Probably sound advice for a wheel cover. They are pretty thin, but they get the job done. They aren't made to hold up to day-to-day training though. I don't really have any good advice on tubulars vs. clinchers. I've always used clinchers, and I'm comfortable with them so that's how we roll.

As far as your search goes, when I was looking for a bike for my wife, I decided what I wanted and then started googling (is that a word?) the bike + "Craigslist." It occurred to me that even if it wasn't on the local list for my area, I could still get it shipped across the country if need be (wound up buying from a good guy on these forums though and having it shipped).

Everyone tells me the HED3 is stout enough to use as a training wheel. I don't, but it makes me feel good to know it's solid. Would love to pick up one for the rear one day.

Oh, one other thing about the disc cover - aero, yes - mega expensive, no - but you don't get that cool "whooosh" sound when you get it up to speed. Man, I really love that sound...