I too would love a Riv. Alas my finances don't allow ATM nor can I justify a purchase now for the long term... My poor man's Bombadil is a 95-96 Specialized Hardrock that I've fitted with On One Mary Handlebars, a Pletscher rack in the front, PB Hardcore fenders, MKS pedals with Power Grips and a Cardiff Wessex sprung saddle. I have some semi-slicks on the bike (26x 1.75 Fotre Gothams.) Once I got the saddle position and tilt dialed in, it's a really comfy ride. Not fast but quite reliable. Of course once I get it dialed in I start thinking about changing things... considering Xtracycle-izing the bike, not something I think anyone would do to a Rivendell.
Still prefer my Aurora though!