Originally Posted by
LeeG
$.02 echoing Dr. Jims suggestion to get a complete bike. If you're willing to spend a "bit more" spend it on a complete bike because any parts assembly is at a much higher cost. ie. get a $1400 bike if you think the $1000 bike doesn't have what you want. IMHO components aren't as important as the ride.
The reason that I made the suggestion for a complete bike is based on Bikerjp's saying that he had limited funds. I myself have built two bikes, A Soma Stanyan and "My Old Trek", both of which you can find pictures of if you look at my posts. However, I fully recognize the advantages of doing a build. You get the learning experience, you have the fun of selecting the components and installing them, you can build exactly what you want, and you can end up with a unique bike like nobody else's.
Since it is now clear that cost is not a driver and Bikerjp really wants to do a build, I say go for it.