Weight penalty for a dropper isn't as much as you think.  Mine is .3lbs heavier than my Thomson post.  That is including similar seats on both.  I have a bell that weighs .5lbs.  My saddlebag and pump each weigh more than that.

That said, on my upcoming 057 build, Im just doing a straight carbon post.  At least to start.

So Peter emailed and said he has the frame I want available within a week.   Ugggg, I wasn't planning to spend the money for another month.

On the plus side, I've been in contact with the pinstriper and he says anyplace from $200-450 depending on colors, complexity, etc.   So paint could end up as much as the frame itself, but would be Amazingly Epic.

True, without a suspension fork it will be less than some, however, i plan to add on eventually.  Its either rigid fork and xtr to start or suspension for and a hobbled together 1x10 groupo.

Haven't got the pinstriper fixed yet, but being in San Diego I have access to one of the best/original in the world in the name of Lyle Fisk.  I sent him an email to start planning, if not, there are plenty of others, being in the heart of Hot Rod/Low Rider country.

As for color and scheme, I'm thinking some red and gold or silver and another color, for actual work, I figured Id mostly leave that to them as the artists.

45 days wont be a big deal, as it will probably be another 3 months after that until I purchase the groupo.  Looking at the new 1x11 XTR.  This will probably end up the most expensive Chiner bike around.

When I do the Carbon bike I'll be getting some carbon rims to go with it!  Will have both bikes functional, that and axles will be different, current wheels are 20mm up front and standard quick release in the back.  New bike will end up 15mm up front and 12mm in back.

Oh well to late for the drawing

Anyway,  think Im planning an IP-057, with new Shimano XTR 1x11.  Probably run full rigid to start, then track down a suspension fork.