I don't recall that quote. It was 9 years ago. I did buy a single lug (top head tube) in 2017. It was $312. The box above, 21 parts total, was $445. The BB was the most expensive at $68. Not cheap, but I expect at least 160 hours of finishing. So it cost me $2.78/hour to have fun. Cheaper than a movie.

As for the pedals, I used MKS Touring bodies. I have a wide fat foot. Quills and toe clips are very uncomfortable to me.