Originally Posted by lorrer

Thanks a lot for the advice, everyone. Just talked with my LBS's owner who sized me up, and recommended a custom frame... which in the end, since I'm going to spend 7 months straight on my bike, I guess I'll go with. Approximately 2k is going to end up being 3k with the couplers and 105 setup... not including extras like panniers, racks, etc. Everything seemed pretty reasonable though - Franklin lugged frame for about 1400 WITH s&s couplers (this is very reasonable for a custom with couplers from what I've researched), but add to that the shimano 105 build kit for about $800 plus wheels, pedals, handlebar, saddle, etc. etc. and it's looking like 3.1k.

I do have that much to spend without breaking the bank thanks to a generous gift from a relative recently (I count my lucky stars every day)... I wonder if this seems reasonable to you-all? Also, what do you think of 105 versus Ultegra vs. some kind of combination road-mtb setup?

If I do a combination, what should be MTB and what should be road? This forum, btw, kicks butt. Very very useful and thanks for everyone who responds!