Jim,
Quote: I could probably get the whole SRAM Rival package...for about $600. Is that a good price?
Yeah I think $600 is a good (even great) price.
The cheapest I have seen them on eBay (= maybe less than trustworthy) is $699 + $35 shipping for the 2009 new-in-box set.
Quote: Still planning on the SRAM Rival package?
Yes - the reason I chose Rival (in no particular order):
* "basically the same as" the Force package but cheaper
* can't afford the Red package.
* I like the SRAM corporate ethos (over Shimano) and there is a small pull to "buy american"
* my LBS told me that Campy stuff is "the best (and they know it)" but once you go Campy you are 100% campy and part of the reason for me wanting a Cruzbike is the "standardization" of parts - commuting or touring or in need of a part for the next day I don't want to have to rely on Campy stuff being available. Part of my problem with my Thunderbolt (among many others) is the non-standard arrangements that I can only get special order (especially high use stuff like the idler wheels and dinky tubes for the front wheel). So I figured, if I am going to try and be "standard" (or what passes for it in a recumbent) I may as well steer towards a more standards compliant group-set.
Nothing against Campy, I understand their stuff is "the best".
* SRAM has a distro warehouse 5 miles from my LBS so parts/maintenance/returns stuff will be easy.
Regarding the crank length - I have my LBS giving me a price on the Rival groupset but I haven't ordered it yet.
I may still go 170mm based on your (and other posters) recommendation. I kind of thought that getting the compact groupset at 50-34 it had to come with the 172.5mm crank arm.
I am glad I have the problem of deciding between 172.5mm and 170mm.
Quote: You can expect it on Thursday or Friday.
And I am going to be CAMPING next weekend starting Friday!!! I'll live.
My LBS said "bring us in a 1/2 rack of beer and we'll build it up together after hours!"
I will get build pics and share.