I like, very much, that the Gunnar is American made. I am even close enough to drive up there for a fitting if I wanted to do so. I think my heart is pretty much set on one, I like their prices and have found nothing but positive comments regarding their quality.

Crankin - thanks for your input on the weight of the Jamis Coda. I love my LHT for all-day, or multiple-day, trips when speed doesn't really matter. I strongly dislike aluminum and will not go that way again, I love the ride of steel. The Gunnar, or some other custom high-grade/light-weight steel bike will give me a much lighter bike for those times when speed does matter - such as club rides and randonneuring without losing the cushier ride of steel.

I can have a Gunnar frame for $800 and build it up from there. The frame would only be more if we determine that none of their stock sizes will fit me properly, then it is an additional $300 for the frame, still less than the other custom frames I am familiar with - but without compromising on quality.

I have considered changing parts on the LHT to make her lighter, but I like her just as she is. Her wheel-set is pretty much bomb-proof and she is very good at what she does.

I did think about the Pacer being offered here for a few minutes, but she is too small for me. I also just moved which means no new expense for a bit

Thanks for all of your thoughts and questions - they really do help me to think this through. I won't be doing anything until my savings have built up a bit, but at least this time I know a lot more about what I want - and why I want it