Banzai you know not what of you speak. Several Denali owners have chimed in here - I am one and I also have a Nashbar aluminum build which I also enjoy.

Briefly:

1) there is nothing wrong with the Denali frame. It is heavier than some other entry-level frames, not all of them.
2) the components are not bizarre and non-standard, except for the unusual grip shifters and handlebars. The handlebars are actually kind if innovative and no drawback.
3) there is no compelling reason to change components. As with any other bike, you upgrade if you feel like spending the money for it.
4) I challenge you to find a better new bike for less, on Bikes Direct or anywhere else. I think you'll come up short.
(don't try to slip it by saying "after you've upgraded all the parts". Review this thread and see how many miles I've put on mine without upgrading and replacing components, and you'll realize that isn't true.)