While the Cotic might be a better bike in some respects, finish, ride, etc, it's difficult to see how the difference would justify the price difference. If you're going to ride the 456 the way it deserves, then it won't be long before it gets scars, and, speaking from personal experience I wouldn't feel half as bad dropping a £175 frame onto rocks as I would a frame costing £450 or more. If it's a Summer Season, then even better, 'cos the clear coat is dead easy to touch up with a can of clear polyurethane. And if it does get scratched and starts going rusty, then it just adds character. As random sez, get the 456 and put some blingy bits on, like a tasty wheelset. I had a Hummer, sold it and put all the bits on a laquered bare metal steel frame that cost me £250. Yes, it's heavier, but it's just so much fun with 160mm Nixons on and if I slam it into the ground I don't care if it gets scratched or dinged. It's already going rusty… 😉