So I did a little tinkering today, and I've decided basically to wing it, get the bike rideable as soon as possible on the 52x16 just to see how it feels. I'm leaning toward the path of selling this frame pretty soon now. I don't know if I overestimated my own tallness or underestimated the tallness of the bike, but it's not the best fit and that handsome French charm only goes so far.

Incidentally, have you guys had any experience with EightInch frames? They seem almost too inexpensive, but I'm reading a pretty glowing review right now that has me thinking.