As far as price point goes, I just got a part time job at a very cool bike shop, so there is a discount of some degree on everything except complete bikes. That said, I'd like to be under $700 or so. This was my biggest motivating factor in making me move forward with the update idea. I have a lead on some very nice D/A hubs (9spd) laced to Mavic tubulars which I might go for. If I read some of the above posts correctly, the 9spd hubs should be 10spd compatible? I'm not sure I want to run tubulars but for the price they (different bike shop) are asking for a complete bike, it's worth it just for the hubs. I just want to make sure I'm buying bits that are all compatible.

As far as being attached to the frame, I really like it and I only know of 2 that are state side. It's rather light for a steel frame and rides fantastic!