Just visited the forum tonight after a long absence. I have a Downtube Nova for the past several years (4-5) and can say it's a very good bike for the money. I'm not a heavy user, but I estimate 2-3 times most weeks (fall, winter and spring here in Florida). Only a new rear tire and new brake shoes. I did splurge on a new seat very early on. I do my own maintenance, but the bike was in very good adjustment right out of the box. YMMV
Good luck