Originally Posted by
Chris Pringle
The Rodriguez Rainier mentioned above can be had for exactly $2,000 for the
limited version. This is a COMPLETE build with custom geometry based on your body measurements. The frame is entirely handmade in the USA using very nice Reynolds 725 tubing. This bike will handle 32mm tires
with fenders -- a trait not so easy to find nowadays. If you're going to be spending long days in the saddle doing long distance events, the $2,000 price of entry for a custom build should be seriously considered, IMHO. You can make other upgrades eventually: add a carbon fork, better drivetrain, etc. as you'll have a really nice frame to work with -- the heart of any bike.
R+E Cycles (AKA Rodriguez Bikes), overall, enjoys an excellent reputation as a builder.
I am impressed that someone actually read the link that I posted. When I was buying a rando bike in February, this seemed the best on the market and since I had one of their tandems......anyway.
$2k for a pretty much custom, made in America bike is not a lot of money.
Light weight and steel don't mix at a price point much below that figure unless you buy a beautiful vintage frame on e-Bay, which can be done. I bought a used frame to save some money and get something decent to ride quick
Good used steel bikes can be great deals. 631, 753, 853, Sl framed bikes. Lemond had bikes that would take fenders and racks and wide tires and the frames were 853 Reynolds. I have seen these under a grand total all in.