I don't have much to add to this thread, but it does make sense that some companies switch to 26" tires below a certain frame size -- so they don't have to modify the geometry too much to accomodate 700C tires. It's too bad 28" (635mm rim) tires have fallen out of favor. Someone should work on re-popularizing them so the tall folks don't have to ride such goofy-looking bikes.