might have overstated the direness of the hypothetical scenario for dramatic effect--but i guess a more evenhanded way of presenting this is to ask "what bikes would you guys buy without hesitation or against better judgement (given that it's in acceptable condition and the "right" price).

Saw a de rosa pop up on CL for a great price. turns out, it's been PC'd, most of the original components are gone, and it's not worth the hour drive to check out--but were it in a bit better shape I'd be on my way to pick it up right now, in spite of my stalled bianchi project and the other yet-to-be-completed motorcycle/car projects I've got. i've got a thing for de rosa's and gios torinos...i started wondering what other bikes gets people's hearts thumping as well.