I think bobs has got it spot on, it is all about compromises. My definition of a good bike is one that lives up to expectations, an excellent bike is one that exceeds them, after nearly five years my Raven is definatly an excellent bike.
For me;
I don't care who manufactured the tubes.
An integrated rack is too big a risk.
V brakes and Carbide rims are the best braking compromise.
Disks on the rear are completly unnessessary and need frequent adjustment to stop rub, my MTB drives me mad and it only does a few miles a year.
Disks on the front require a stiffer fork, I want maximum comfort through the handlebars.
If you do have a front disk the cable needs securing, just hanging like that is an accident waiting to happen.
The higher profile rims used to stiffen the disk braked wheels will be less comfortable.
The light fitting on the Silkroad is too low, I have that E3 light in the photo, it needs pointing down to be effective, which will cast a big wheel shadow.
The rear mudguard on the Silkroad looks badly fitted, does it need cutting down to fit the chainstays? That has to be both weaker and less effective.
You've been miss-informed about the Raven finish, they are powder coat (Well mine is)
I hope you've found the right size from the Silkroad's four. I had twice the choice from Thorn.
If I'd wanted to spend that much money on a steel frame, I'd have had Longtaffs or Mercian custom build one to my exact requirments.
Though for that sort of money I'd have gone for titainium.
None of which matters a jot if you're happy with your bike, though maybe you'd be better off reserving judgment till you've done a few thousand miles. My bike's better than yours does seem childish... but you started it
To be positive, that headset stop is a brilliant idea, it's the only thing I'd transfer from the Silkroad to my Raven.
