Personally, I knda dig the MASI because it is rather unique. Of course as several have pointed out - fit is the utmost concern. As far as components go, you'll burn through whatever you've got and replace with new in a couple of years anyway. Surlys are a dime-a-dozen, however the ones with rim brakes are no longer made... I don't like the MASI fork (as mentioned) but the disc brakes are compelling. Plus, the MASI leans toward that new fangled thing peeps is talkin' bout; gravel. I'm curious about your thoughts too.