Road Cycling - New Bike

I am currently looking to get a road bike after a few years of MTB, I want a bike where I can ride recreationally on short to full day rides. I am looking to spend between $600-$1000. I am unsure as to buying a bike from a store, or just building one from scratch. I am fairly certain that I can get most of the really expensive components off ebay. Putting it together will be no problem for me so I would like some suggestions from all of you
thanks
matt

Visit 2 or 3 bike shops and talk to them about your plans and budget and look at all the brands and models they recommend. You'll find a good selection in the $600-$1000 price range.
Buy from the bike shop that you feel comfortable with (good mechanics, knowledgeable salespeople, good selection of bikes and components).

Most important: Make sure you get a bike that FITS !! If it doesn't fit you won't like the bike and won't ride it for long.

Even if you buy a whole grup off E-Bay, I think you'll find that buying a complete bike -- or a frame assembled with a build kit from a frame maker -- will be more cost-effective.

At the $1000 price range, you should be able to find a decent Aluminum or steel framed bike equipped with Shimano 105 components or Campagnolo Veloce. Most mass-produced bikes at this price point, from big-name manufacturers [Specialized, Trek, whatever] are of comparable quality and specced with comparable components. They differ in geometry, so it's important to try as many bikes as possible to find the one that fits most comfortably.

Make the bike buying process a project. Go to a number of different shops, look at and try different bikes. Never buy the first one you see. If you see a bike that you really/i] like, but is [i]just out of your price range, go for it. A bike is a long-term investment, and five years from now, you won't be kicking yourself for saving $200 and regretting your purchase.