just took another look at the details of the bikes geometry, on a 55cm frame, the chainstays are 440mm, which will be perfectly fine and really isnt a "short rear end". My Tricross has that, my old touring bike as well, even my mtn bike that I ride with panniers on has pretty much that chainstay length. I have size 9 feet for reference. Being a lighter guy as well (140) it certainly does give some leeway for bike load and wheel stress but sorry, dont have enough wheel knowledge to give any insight for that.
Alright thanks, this information definitely helps.
I think I'm gonna do it. I'll prob pick up the frame/fork in the next couple of weeks after I get my race bike squared away. I'll make sure to post pics/reviews!