dear HM
lots of good input in your post, thank you!
Since you mentioned you own a CETMA, I feel compelled to "confess" it's my favourite from all known box bikes. I like everything about it, it looks functional in every detail, sturdy, and pleasant to the eye.
I would purchase one if I could. I actually
could afford the cost for a frame, but shipping/importing would make it cost over twice that value, wich makes no sense.
Back to your observations:
or the most part, I think Kevbo's concerns are significantly overblown with regards to the front loader
So do I. Vast majority of the recumbents sold in Brazil (probably all over the world too) have 20" front wheels.
it's probably easier to climb with long tail. Mostly because it's hard to stand on a front loading bike and really get leverage
I don't know about "real" xtracycles, but with my home built and 2 kids on board, standing and pedaling hard does not feel that good. But then, I'm a recumbent rider, so I'm used to just sitting and spinning, and that's what I do - hapilly - with my cargo bike too! This particular feature poses no problem as far as I'm concerned.