If you are sure you can get a good fit in a stock frame go for it, otherwise, go custom.
Kathi,
Hence the dilemma since I feel like the only way I can figure out if I can get a good fit is to go on a long ride, which is not possible, before committing. Are we newbies simply destined to spend money on bikes that will not turn out to be keepers? It's what I'm attempting to avoid.