Originally Posted by
bibliobob
Good question. I'm on the fence myself, and am also on the bigger side (about 200 lbs). But, I'm inclined to think that, on the paved roads that am almost always on, 28-32 is my sweet spot for tire width. So, if I have a buy a rando frame, I'm inclined to go with 700 c bike. It would be a bonus if it could fit 38s in a pinch.
On the other hand, if you live in areas where trails and gravel are more common, then a 650b bike, with tires in the 38-42 range might be a better choice....
These are just my thoughts, and I'm trying to work through this issue as well...
On the VO blog, they confirmed that you could fit 35's and fenders, but it would be tight. They are advertising 32's and fenders because they prefer the clearance. I suspect you might be able to just squeak in 38's with no fenders. You could email them and ask.