clarkbre

Thank you all for your responses. As far as 8, 9, or 10 speeds…I will be happywith 9 out back. I picked 9 because Iwill be able to transition from 3x8 to 3x9 using the 105 derailleurs on my 8until I get the 3x9 shifters, 9 speed cassette, chain, and crankset. That being said, I found a 5500 series 105triple front derailleur on ebay and bought it and also bought a set of 6500series Ultegra brakes off of craigslist.

I’m not sure where you’re reading those numbers. Soma lists the 54cm weighing in at 4.0 lbs. In the Soma Smoothie builds I have seenonline, many are 20 lbs +/- a few ounces. Not bad considering my current bike is 24 lbs.