Hello, Vik:
We've never met, of course, but in fact my decision to go ahead with a (long contemplated) Thorn purchase is predicated partly on comments you and others from NA and elsewhere have made on various forums, etc. Andy Blance's prompt, informative response was very reassuring. I've also long been following your blog
I don't know how things are in Alberta, but here in Ontario there really are very few cyclists who 'go' for the kinds of bikes Thorn (and other European makers) produce. I've never seen a Thorn bike 'live'! Here, seems to me there are many, many people riding full-on road bikes, mtbs ('roadified', as in my case, at times), 700c/drop bar touring, or 'comfort' bikes (ugh) who'd be better served by 'touring' bikes ranging from light-to-heavy-to 'touring mtb', flat bars or drops, depending on intended use. There's always the custom option (e.g. True North is about an hour from me), but that is (for me) far too expensive.
So, I've had to 'work up' to this decision, which comes down to either the Ripio (derailleur = Sterling) or Sherpa (I like 26" wheels/widish tires). Still not absolutely sure which (almost certain the Ripio), but it will be one of those two (frame only) shortly.
