Very cool second frame. Congrats. I especially like the double bolt seat cluster, even if it was only done cuz your friend is OCD about saddle adjustments.

I'm not really a huge fan of the middle tube thing either, but it does give it a certain retro vibe, and it works aesthetically here. I'd imagine it does stiffen up the frame. Then there's the water bottle issue it solves. I've noticed mine keeps getting farther away too!

A TIG welder would come in handy for those custom lugs. Perhaps put that on your list...