Hmm, some good food for thought here. The reason I lean toward 700c/29" is that it would keep my 3-bike stable on the same wheel size, plus I own studded tires (nokian w240, 40mm).

@peterw_diy, what info is missing concerning geometry for the CX 700 to determine toe overlap? To be fair, the bike I tried was a hybrid (schwinn world street), and was a bit on the smaller side for me; I have a Salsa Fargo (size large, 2.1" tires) and Nashbar touring (58cm, 40mm or 32mm tires), neither of which has toe overlap issues. I would be interested in that spreadsheet so I can compare possible frames with what I have, if you are willing to share it.

I have considered the Surly frames. They are a bit cheaper than my Salsa, but I am not sure that the cost to "having another bike in the house" ratio is good enough for my wife. The longer I go at this, the more I am talking myself into riding my Fargo all winter. Thanks all for your feedback so far.