Originally Posted by
hoovbikes
That is a beautiful looking machine you've got there. I had not heard of Carver, thanks for the rec. As far as the 6/4, I had a feeling some people would feel that way. Definitely makes you wonder if it is in fact the tubing shape that makes more of a difference on that bike.. Guess I'll have to track down some Lynksy enthusiasts to get more of an insider opinion.
My Carver is a derivative on their GR250, but with slider drops that allow Paragon Machine Works inserts...I think someone on BF.net has the newer GR260. Haven't seen posts of an owner on BF of the GR PRO yet. Too new, and in that budget territory people start shopping more boutique brands.
Any of these Ti frames will probably do you fine. It is a question of geometry, price, and the name on the frame.
The Reilly is more racey in handling probably than the rest with its roadie-short 420mm versus 430-435 chainstays IMHO. The others will be a bit more stable all else equal...although since Reilly states BB height and not drop (and doesn't tell you the tire size basis for that number), there is still some question asking to do.
My Carver, for example I can adjust the rear-center (effective chainstay) from 425mm to 445 whenever I want. I tend to keep it at 445 for more stability, especially since I'm pulling panniers much of the time.
Since the dropout is a slider-plate, I just upgraded it from a traditional derailleur hanger...to Shimano's new (for road, old for MTB) Direct Mount RD standard. Only cost $18USD. Food for thought.
Lynskey has sales all the time...problem is catching one. Literally the evening after I decided to by a GR250 in the morning, the price returned from $1500 to $2100 for no reason...which got me shopping Carver instead.