I have been offered a good deal on an optima cougar a very attractive high performance high racer.
Undecided about going for it or getting a silvio frameset.
Not sure about building something up from scratch.
I would advise trying a Silvio out first- private message John Tolhurst (or skype:johntolhurst) and see if he is able to demo the bike/fit you out/advise you on the build.
There are advantages to living in the same city as the designer of Cruzbikes
I think you made a good choice buying a Silvio. Even if you have to wait to get it build. I don’t have a Silvio but have a Sofrider I use it to and from work and also on long trips. I can’t keep up with road bikes with my Sofrider but some can because they are in better shape. I really enjoy the Sofrider it is very practical. I have never tested a Silvio but just looking at it you can see it is a fast bike. It also blends in with other road bikes better then any other recumbent. It can also be a nice experience putting it together. It takes some time to learn to ride but it gets better and better.