Any input would be greatly appreciated. TY
Looks like a neat project! Below is some details on fork options between the two frames.
If you get the regular Smoothie, then the Whiskey No7 fork or Ritchey WCS fork would work well since both align with the Axle to Crown and caliper reach the frame was designed around.
https://www.universalcycles.com/shop...s.php?id=93690 Whiskey no7 straight is $370 retail and $314.50 plus free shipping with discount
https://www.universalcycles.com/shop...s.php?id=94801 Ritchey WCS in 46mm rake is $300 retail and $339.96 plus free shipping with discount
https://www.interlocracing.com/shop/...rbon-road-3564 There is also this IRD Mosaic fork which is a house brand of Merry Sales, who also owns the Soma brand. Its has carbon forks and a metal steerer, but has multiple rakes and is less expensive at $240.
If you get the Smoothie ES, then the Whiskey no7+ fork would work well since it is built for longer reach brakes with the Axle to Crown a bit longer than the regular no7 fork.
https://www.universalcycles.com/shop...s.php?id=89493 Whiskey no7+ straight is $420 retail and $357 plus free shipping with discount.
https://www.somafabshop.com/shop/pro...3&category=975 IRD Mosaic has a longer reach fork in multiple rakes for the Smoothie ES too. Again, carbon forks and a metal steerer and it costs $300 retail and can be found for $240 online. The tire clearance is limited to 28mm though.
The Universal Cycles discount codes currently in effect are thru 3/16. They change every week and are easily available by just signing up for their online newsletter.
CatKindle10: 10% off orders over $100
CatKindle15: 15% off orders over $300
As for sizing, I have no idea. You mention a 52cm Smoothie, but not the size of your Specialized. If you have a 52cm Specialized, then the Smoothie will stretch you out more.since reach is longer and stack is lower between the two 52cm frames. List what your current frame size is and it could help clarify.