Originally Posted by kh777

cc700:
The questions were part of the discovery process, so relax. We didn't know about the preference for steel and 18-19 lbs until Post #9, 4 posts down from my question. Your Once a weight target and desired frame material is established it's easier to provide suggestions. 'Lightweight' can mean different things to different people.

Contrary to what you believe, building up a bike using handpicked parts does not have to be expensive. But it takes time and patience to score the parts (off craigslist and ebay, for example). I have built a 16 lb bike in this manner for about $600. Again, it's about preferences and expectations. Now we know the OP has a preference to buy a complete bike, 18-19 lbs.

to the OP:
Upgrading the wheelset on a factory bike with a used set of relatively lightweight wheelset could net a 300 gram (10.7 oz) savings. So can changing tires and tubes.

I run a set of Bontrager Select Track wheelset (860g/1040g) on my bike (paid about 100 used, craigslist). If you don't care for bolt-on front wheels, you can try running a high quality regular road wheel with quick release - they tend to be lighter due to the low-flange hubs anyway. Some factory fg/ss front wheels are in the 1100g range, whereas a decent road wheel might be 750-850g. It may also help in the security department: when you lock the bike you can take the front wheel off, and lock the front wheel, the frame and rear wheel altogether with one lock.

The Wabi Lightning does appear to be nice. Classic looking and it's appears to have a nice frame (7005 scandium enhanced aluminum).