thanks Guys.
Intended use? - having fun mainly; places where I wouldn't take the RST. There are a lot of trails and mucky bits around where I live. I found the RST a bit too skittish off tarmac (tyres probably inflated too hard and going too fast). I used the Sterling for my commute during the recent snow - had come off a couple of times on the ice on my RST. Felt very smug passing stuck cars.
There's also half an idea in the back of my mind about off road touring. Sometime. I'm getting to that stage in my life where I have a bit more time to do what I want and as everyone knows, more time = more bikes. ( I think it's called Vik's Law)
It's noticeably heavier than the RST - especially at the rear end. The Rigid Andra seems a bomb-proof rim - but I pay for it when I lift it onto the roof of the car. Having said all that - it rolls along nicely.
Bits;
Salsa stem
Thorn Comfort bars
Shimano T660 brake levers (3 finger and great with the twist grip)
Avid 7s with kool stop dual compound pads
FSA stem
Thorn chainset
Schwalbe Land Cruisers - cheap and not bad for now.
and a Brooks Champion Special
Ian
