In a nut shell: Three things I'd like to know: 1) What color did you choose and, if you had to do it again, would you pick the same color? 2) What size *frame* should I order? 3) Is there a better deal "out there"? (i.e. I can get the Double Cross w/ CrMo fork for $400 and free delivery). Some background and more details are supplied below.

I've been going back and forth in my mind on whether to buy the SOMA Double Cross or the Soma Smoothie ES. The ES has slightly longer stays (17.13 inches) than the Double Cross (16.73), so I thought that it would be the better choice, considering that I use panniers to commute. Problem with the Smoothie is that I would be limited to 700 32c tires. No problem for the Double Cross, it allows 38c w/ fender clearance.) Also, the Smoothie frame won't allow V Brakes as it's designed for long-reach calipers. Not a problem for the Double Cross; it has cantilever brake studs for cantilever brakes
or v-brakes. Now I have to decide on the size (58 or 60) and color (British racing green or cobalt blue.)

Regarding the size... I'm 6 ft 1 with a 34 inch inseam. The 60" frame has a standover height of 33.4 inches, so I would be cutting things pretty close. Even so, I think I'm going to have to go with that size. The headtube length is more than an inch longer than the 58 size. Every bike I have tested with a short head tube has been uncomfortable to some degree. Btw, the standover height for the 58 size is 32.6 inches - pretty good.... except for the shorter head tube that comes with that. Decisions, decisions. Anyway, I would like to order next week..., so this should be my last call for help. I certainly would appreciate some input.