I think I know what I want now. Can you help me find it?

[cosc]

Just to throw another one in the mix-the salsa vaya would fit what you want. I love my vaya -a great all-around bike. The smallest sizes come with 26 inch wheels and drop bars. The vaya 3 model has triple crankset. Hope you get just what you need.

[IBrakeforPastry]

I checked out the Vaya a few days ago (I think that's actually how this search may have started). There are something like five left in the world in my size. The dealer said they're kind of hard to get Glad to know you like yours so maybe someday I can plan ahead and order in January.

[tulip]

I agree that the Bike Friday option might merit a bit more attention. I didn't ride mine before I got it, but it was built based on my road bike. I ride the Bike Friday alot and it is wonderful. Don't dismiss it out of hand.

[IBrakeforPastry]

What is your size?

Probably a 44 or 46 (if it comes in a 46, I don't remember. I'm getting confused with all the bikes I've researched)

I agree that the Bike Friday option might merit a bit more attention. I didn't ride mine before I got it, but it was built based on my road bike. I ride the Bike Friday alot and it is wonderful. Don't dismiss it out of hand.

It's not dismissed yet. I keep thinking how nice it would be to have the versatility, and the ability to throw it in the back of my car. And the consultant spent so much time with me on the phone that I'm sure it would be a great build.

I'm off to the Soma/Surly dealer now to hopefully have a chat before the lunchtime rush. It's in the neighborhood, easy walk, easier ride.

[Jolt]

Was just looking at the Troll geometry chart...is it just me or does that bike run wicked big? I think my 16.5" Trek has the same standover as the 14" Troll (and no, I am not referring to when I have the street tires on it).

[indysteel]

Was just looking at the Troll geometry chart...is it just me or does that bike run wicked big? I think my 16.5" Trek has the same standover as the 14" Troll (and no, I am not referring to when I have the street tires on it).

I don't disagree, although it's not altogether different from a lot of mtbs. I have a short inseam for my height (I'm 5'4 with an inseam just under 29 inches). It's a struggle to find mtbs with enough clearance. For instance, I ride a Santa Cruz Juliana and while they contend that their XS and S fit women in the 4'11 to 5'4 range, the SO for the bike suggests otherwise.

In any event, the SO fro the Troll might be too high for the OP. I hope not though.....

[IBrakeforPastry]

Was just looking at the Troll geometry chart...is it just me or does that bike run wicked big? I think my 16.5" Trek has the same standover as the 14" Troll (and no, I am not referring to when I have the street tires on it).

Thanks for bringing that to my attention. I can compare numbers for a road bike, but I know nothing about mountain bike geometry so I didn't even look at the charts. Those numbers are bigger than my Specialized Sirrus which is my current everything bike. Hmm. I wonder if I'm just looking for an excuse to get the Friday. Honestly, the information I've received on this site had been invaluable. Thank you to everyone!

[Sky King]

I checked out the Vaya a few days ago (I think that's actually how this search may have started). There are something like five left in the world in my size. The dealer said they're kind of hard to get Glad to know you like yours so maybe someday I can plan ahead and order in January.

We sell both Soma and Surly too, I would lean toward a Surly - just think they frames are put together better. Troll's are pretty this year for sure. A disc trucker is also a perfect option for what you are thinking. I rode a disc trucker with moustache bars on a 40 mile dirt/gravel road ride this spring and it was a super nice ride.