Ok I am trying to get my order with Peter wrapped up. The things I that are not in flux are listed below (ie. definitely what I want).
*8spd Nexus Red Label
*Dual chain ring crank so that I will have hi/lo range but manually shift as Peter says no easy way fora derailleur up front Cheaper solution than Schlumpf too
*Upgraded 36 spoke CR-18 Sun rims
*SS spokes
Here is where I need input/advice
*Gearing. I was thinking a 53/39 front dual chainring and then either a 16 or 17 rear. Since 5th gear is direct I was trying to get my road speed at about 16-17 mph at about 80-90rpm cadence as I am normally carrying something when I am touring so I don't gear for ultimate speed just comfortable.
*Color I am torn here. Stock black which is powdercoated and looks sort of menacingly cool or go with a Xootr Silver frame. OR... custom paint with Imron for an extra $90 but then what color? I like the subdued don't steal me look of the black but if I am doing something custom then maybe go a little wilder...mind says black...heart says the sky is the limit!
*What tires? I want reflective sidewalls for when I ride in Europe. I want something fast yet will stand up to an urban environment AND maybe see a dirt trail from time to time. So I can't go too narrow or they will knife in but that will only comprise about 3-5% of my riding so I don't want to give up to much efficiency for the rare occurence. I thought about the Schwalbe Marathon Slick and the Primo Comet Kevlars as possible choices. I have a set of Tioga Comp Pools that are fast but no reflective stripe.
*Tube. Any ideas? Not to heavy but decent puncture resistance.
*Brakes. I was thinking of Deore LX but maybe it is worth going with the XTR? I want excellent brakes but I am not on an unlimited budget.
*Chain. Is it worth going with a hollow pin chain or a stainless? What is the cost for this approximately?
*Dynamo. Torn between Lightspin bottle but ultra-efficient or going with something like a Nexus as a SON is out of my price range at the moment. Lightspin could be fitted later but I'd prefer a mounting bracket now.
Since the seatpost is the same as a Dahon, I can use one of my Thudbusters or use a carbon fiber seat post I have as well.
All thoughts and opions are welcome. Prompt ones are better as I want to get this baby finalized and ordered ASAP.
Thanks!