realskiers

I would include titanium in your road bike project possibilities.  Lynn has an older GT titanium bike and I'm pretty sure it is similar to carbon in dampness -- but isn't currently "in vogue" so older LiteSpeeds are arouind.
She sold Doug's first racing bike, which was a Litespeed with Campagnola Record  components for about $600 through the local bikeshop.  (a side benefit, unless the thief is really knowledgeable, titanium doesn't distinguish itself as a target the way carbon does).


Fall didn't require a doctor's visit, but left side of rib cage is quite tender.

Quite right! I had forgotten about Ti bike frames.  Terryl's Dad has or had one -- amazingly light, strong, great ride, and not harsh.  You're right, much more damp than aluminum.  That material seems to be off the radar, and not sexy at the moment.  Price? Last time I looked at Ti mtn. bikes, a hard tail frame alone was north of $2000. 

As for a daily driver for the road, not sure I will go there this year.  Just had a long chat with the mechanic at our LBS, and we priced out what it would cost to rebuild the old steel frame race bike sitting in our garage to make it ride-able and have decent performance in our area (lots of hills), and it doesn't seem feasible.  Would cost the same or less to buy a new bike.  Even less to buy a decent used one.  Considering what we've spent on bikes and ski gear in recent years, that just doesn't seem sensible at the moment.....   

Glad you didn't hurt yourself yesterday.  Hope the fun-factor of the ride was worth the spill. 

Re. weight of bikes, you and Max are right on -- I am less concerned with a pound or three of bike weight, than I am of good geometry, decent components, and proper fit.  My 29er weighs as much as my old steel frame 26er, with it's big front shocks, bigger tires and all, but rides SOOO much better....effortles s pedaling.  We are in this for exercise, and having a great reason to get out in the woods and open hills to get some fresh air, clear the mind, and have some fun doing it.  I will never race, have no ego wrapped up in this sport (or any other), and have nothing to prove to anyone except to myself.