I'm looking to build up a flat bar, 26" touring(trekking) bike. I've got the frame, fork, saddle and about $400-$600 to use right now.
Hypothetically if this were your build/budget, what components would you go with? I've got a pretty good idea but I figured I'd poll the masses to see what a forum with this much experience would suggest.
I can flex on the budget some, but it might have to wait for a while. I'm not looking for racks/luggage to be included in the total cost and I'll do all the wrenching myself. Most likely use will be weekend on/offroad tours/bikepacking, but I'd like to be able to have the option of extended tours as well. Bike frame is a mid 90s ATB (Giant Sedona ATX) with studs for canti brakes.
Ready....GO!