I just ordered a R1U 500. What finally pushed me over the edge was a) it had most of the features I was most concerned about; b) all the positive reviews online and c) the reputation of the company. Thanks to all for your help and advice! Great forum and very useful for newbies, so thanks to all the experts (and other newbies) for generously giving of your time. Now all I gotta do is get the bike and assemble it!