thanks. the only other aluminum frame full-size bike i had was a mid 90s glue bonded trek 7000 i believe. i have since had a thing for the oversize aluminum. this bike had the componetry i was looking for...mainly an internal gear hub for low maintenace. i guess there is about 500 miles on this bike and it has done well. the frame has such a predictable pleasant solidness to it i look forward to riding it.