I spent alot on parts but I ride almost everyday since I my bike is my car. While to some it is a foolish thing to do, I feel that when you buy parts that are quality and last, it outweighs the cost after a while. Also I feel that the cost of a bike can't compare to the maintenance of car. There is no insurance, gas, or expensive parts you have to replace. I figure that in a year you can buy 2 or more bike with the amount you spend on a car. I saved over $500 dollars last school year by riding my bike almost everyday by not riding the bus (mind you bus fair was $1.75 not $2.00) so this went into buying parts. You get a workout, have fun, get where you need to go, and contribute less to the Earth's pollution.
Cannondale: This is my main ride now that I have a brake on it
Frame - $650 (but came complete with full Suntour Superbe Grupo)
Aerospokes - $225 front (off ebay), $325 rear ($550)
Time Attack XS pedals - $56 (off ebay)
Carbon Fork Special - $150 (came with HS, spacers, stem, and time trial levers)
Brake - $20
Brooks Pro - $62 (off ebay new)
Total - $1488
Conversion: This is my do it all bike and lockup bike
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Some parts were a transfer from my 1st fixie (saddle, cranks, stem)
Frame - $200 (brand new)
HS - $50
Front Deep V - $72 with a hub transfer from old wheel ($42 for rim, $30 for labor)
Rear Deep V - $175 ($45 for formula hub, $70 for rim, $60 for spokes and labor)
Total - $497
Zullo (Old Davy) is getting sold and all parts on it were a transfer of parts from the other frames
Complete - $350 (Campy Record Hubs and Crankset)
My first Fixie that got me started but is no more due to a frame dent from a crash - $400 off ebay
Pac Bag: This is what I consider to complete my "car" so this is my "trunk" and I feel it is a worthy investment. It does all my heavy duty carrying and has worked very well.
http://flickr.com/photos/7435668@N07...7600192753850/
$400
Grand Total - $3135
There still is more $ involved due to other parts bought as well but there has been a mix of trades and selling involved as well.
Base price of a decent used car (excluding gas and insurance) - $3,000-$5,000
So that's my excuse for spending so much even though you get alot back as well.