rufus - I think the consenus now on the Blizzard is that it WAS made in Taiwan for a few years, but was brought back to Canada around 2005. What isn't know is what plant the frame is made in. I wouldn't be surprised to learn that it comes out of the Procycle plant in Quebec.

Also regarding the rear triange, 853 is not made in in a diameter for chain and seat stays (at least this used to be the case, haven't heard recently) thus ALL 853 frames use a different alloy for the stays.

Not sure what you are getting at with the geometry charts, they are similar, but not exact. My guess is that Nashbar borrowed most of the measturements, sent them to the factory, and got a Blizzard like bike in return.

Again, I'm not trashing the Nashbar, I think it looks like an unbelievable frame for the money. If cash was tight (it always is for me with a wife and two toddlers at home) I'd go for the Nashbar if I needed a new frame. If I had some disposable cash I'd go with the Blizzard, or a Cotic Soul.