Originally Posted by
Darth Lefty
Looking at upgrading bikes I have, it's obvious that components sold separately are a terrible deal. Unless your desires are very specific, you are best off buying a whole bike. I might need to replace the frame on my Hardrock due to a stuck crankset; a new frame, crankset, BB, and cables cost as much as the whole bike on the used market, which makes it a write-off. You probably couldn't build a new Hardrock from parts for twice the price of the current model. Maybe the math is different if you have high end stuff.
This is a common misconception. You can part out a ride inexpensively and efficiently if you are patient and know where to shop. If you are buying a $1500 bike or less it is hard but if you go over that price it is easy and you get exactly what you like.