Originally Posted by
FlashBazbo
I'm thinking the cheapo groupsets and wheels are there to occupy space for fit -- and perhaps a test ride for a serious buyer -- but with the assumption that, for a fee, they're going to be changing those components out for the eventual buyer. If they can sell a limited edition $7,000 Bianchi with 105 installed, so be it. But they will also be willing to sell that Bianchi with Super Rec, if you'll pay the upcharge. Given the level of these bikes, it seems like a LOT of wasted low-level groupset stock -- but maybe it's a winning strategy. I would sure like to hear how they work it. (But even if I ask, I don't think they're going to want to talk about that with a guy off the street.)
I'm thinking you've got it.
Those kinds of bikes are typically sold as frame sets and assembled by the shop with whatever components the buyer wants. I doubt there are too many $7,000 bike buyers wanting "lightly used Dura Ace". I'm thinking they are going to want new-in-the-box components. I know I would. No matter if you build up the bike with Dura Ace, Record or Red, you're going to be wrong 2/3 of the time and the stuff that you take off isn't new-in-the-box anymore.
Assemble the bike with 105 for initial fitting purposes then take it completely apart and install the customer's preferred components. A final fitting and test ride and the happy customer is good-to-go.