I like the "bit the bullet" part of the post. yeah, I hated to do it ... I fought it as hard as I could ... but finally I was Forced to "Do what I had wanted to do for so long!!" Yiou are a real trooper, to be willing to endure the suffering of upgrading your bike.

I just got an Ultegra set from merlin. I had to use their choice of bits, because I saved some cash which I couldn't afford to spend, but I got what I need for now for a price I coulsd afford. I would rather have gotten a GS instead of SS RD so I have ther 32-tooth option, but for what I ride, 28 should cover me anyway.

Like you I am eager to get started with assembly but not in a hurry. Going to actually try to do everything right the first time, for a change.

Congrats most of all for your luck with/ choice of partners. I'd never trade in mine (unless I got a Really sweet deal on an upgrade ((obviously j/k (in case she reads this))) but to have a lifelong friend who shares your interests ... that really is priceless. Wish you guys all the right stuff ... and post pics when you can please.