Thanks, everybody! I went back to the LBS and rode the Axiom again. I had the ID8 out before work with morning. It seemed to be a case of love the one you're with. On the ID8, I was thinking, "Oh, this climbs so well!" On the Axiom, it was, "Oh, how buttery smooth!" The LBS owner then told me that the shop had a version of the Elium that they designed (a cross between the SG and the Race) that I might like. He suggested I take out the Elium Race. He explained that the LBS version of the Elium would climb like the Race and be lighter than the ID8 and the Axiom, but that it would be more comfortable over long rides than the Race. The LBS version is not in Seven's catalog.

So, I took out the Elium and, wow, that bike just sung to me. Out of the parking lot and up a hill and I knew it was the one. It accelerates so well! And it's so light! And, if something happens to the carbon, it can be fixed (unlike my poor Felt, which will be relegated to the status of trainer bike). The fit information, etc., has been completed and we should get Seven's recommendation back next week. From start to finish, it should be 3 to 4 weeks before the new frame arrives. I went with unpainted Ti with the white, red, and black decal. We're going to transfer most of my Felt's components over to the Elium and then I'll use a variety of stuff we have around the house to equip the Felt for the trainer.

DH has been the worst (or best?) enabler through this whole process. He really didn't want something to happen to me while out riding the Felt, which I understand, but he went above and beyond by saying things like, "You love to bike. You really should get the perfect one for you" and "titanium will last forever" etc. etc. etc. When I texted him from the shop about the Elium, he sent back, "If it's better, you should get it."

Alex

P.S. to Sadie Kate: Willie's wheels sure look familiar!