Great ideas in here! Pretty sure I could do a complete Deore within budget.* Thinking I may as well do 1x12, but with rear frame spacing of 135mm, can I still fit a 12-speed cluster back there? I know this is works fine with the Campagnolo road groups I'm familiar with (both my other Seven and my IF are running 12 on 135) but I'm not familiar with Shimano stuff, especially mtb.

* On the other hand: My goal is not to impress my buds (I won't) but to have fun. I'm intrigued by the value Microshift offers, as well as the idea of keeping things simple and affordable with Deore 10 or 11. I may find that once I add up the cost of brakes, wheels, and tires, I'll also have to consider the cost of a divorce lawyer.