Can't help with the chrome but before you write off Aelle read this: http://www.habcycles.com/m7.html
IMHO you can give a reputable frame builder most decent tubes and they will make a good bike. Give an average framebuilder any tube and they will make an average (or worse) bike. The difference between this Pin and one made from say SLX is probably less than 200gms. If you factor that into a total build weight of say 9kg at least (with good wheels/components) it doesn't really make any difference at all. In fact if you're carrying a water bottle, you can make them the same by not filling the bottle on the Aelle bike right to the top! It's easy to get hung up on tubing but the secret to a good bike is more holistic. IMHO.
Can't help with the chrome but before you write off Aelle read this:
http://www.habcycles.com/m7.html
IMHO you can give a reputable frame builder most decent tubes and they will make a good bike. Give an average framebuilder any tube and they will make an average (or worse) bike. The difference between this Pin and one made from say SLX is probably less than 200gms. If you factor that into a total build weight of say 9kg at least (with good wheels/components) it doesn't really make any difference at all. In fact if you're carrying a water bottle, you can make them the same by not filling the bottle on the Aelle bike right to the top! It's easy to get hung up on tubing but the secret to a good bike is more holistic. IMHO.