Thanks for all the replies, guys! I know when something starts looking like a money chute, and this was partially just to get another project going. The plan was to make the majority of the parts (I've got access to a very nice av maintenance shop) but, mulling it over, I'd rather use a more beater frame where gobby welds don't look terribly out of place and any mistakes aren't a big deal

On the other hand, what's the general consensus on single speeds/fixed in the winter? My first impression is "WHAT on earth is that guy doing with a fixie in weather like this??" but maybe I'm wrong Single speeds in need of a little love can be had for fairly cheap out here (<$50), even if those ones do tend to weigh a ton.

I just have too long a list of things I want to do, and not enough time or money Thanks for everyone's help.