Bob,

I was faced with a similar decision several months ago.  After a long discussion with Greg Peak at Longbikes, I decided to purchase a frame from him.  The components had already been purchased to completely rebuild my Vanguard.  The only thing left was to find a way to mount the disc brakes.  Many had suggested talking to Greg about this.  In the conversation with Greg, I was saying that this was to be THE bike for the rest of my life.  I intended to ride this into my dotage, maybe another 20-25 years.  His comment was that we did not know the true status of my Vanguard frame.  It may have lived a good part of its life near an ocean, where the sea air might promote corrosion inside the frame where we cannot see. 

In the end I decided to get a new Longbikes frame.  It was huge expense, well beyond the budget for rebuilding the bike.  Now I WILL be riding this bike for the rest of my life, I may never be able to afford another!  That being said, it is a fantastic bike!  It looks good and is very smooth.  It is reminiscent of the excitement that I felt when first I got my Vanguard, ten years ago.  This is a very cool bike.

I am happy to say that the Vanguard was sold to a friend.  He intends to ride it while he designs and builds a custom recumbent.

Sorry Bob there is no bike frame for you in my garage. I felt I should share my story with you anyway.

David