Interesting that your lbs should say that, as Jamis has always been known for more bang for your buck as far as components. The Quest, which this thread is about, has Shimano 105 and Ultegra. Hardly a "cheap out on components. And I'm not knocking Surly, I have a Cross check, which I had built with Shimano 105. Sounds like you just really love your friction shifters and should go with that! They should work on the Aurora as it is a touring/commuting bike.