Anyone have any input on choosing between an 07 Orbea Orca and a Cervelo R3? I'm on the heavier end of the spectrum at 5'11" 185 lbs. I'm not a racer, just an avid recreational rider who tends to do long (75-85 mi) rides in the summer.

I rode and enjoyed both: I loved the smooth ride--and I'll admit it, the looks--of the Orca, but the Cervelo felt stiffer and snappier without being punishing. The extreme lightweight of the frame gives me some pause, though, and I get scared just looking at those wafer-thin seat stays.

Any thoughts/advice? I'm also open to exploring other options, would love to hear what people would recommend.

Let's see, I've got no experience with high end bikes, so I'll answer. These are both top end bikes. I read one review of the ORCA that said it super strong and stiff. On the other hand, Cervelo was advertising during the Tour that they're the only bike company that doesn't build a special frame for Paris-Roubaix because their frames are tough enough to take it without modifications.

At 185 pounds I don't think you've got anything to worry about with either bike, except maybe with wheels. High end bikes tend to come with extreme reduced spoke count wheels. My guess is even these would be no problem if your roads are good and you're not terribly rough on them. Of course, if you've got the pockets for this kind of bike you might want to check out the Nimble carbon three spoke wheels- light, bullet proof, super cool looking, and expensive.