I think Surly does a good job with their stock build. I built mine up myself and wanted to include components like: XT hubs, Ultegra cranks/bb, Ultegra and XT derrailleurs, and Dura Ace bar end shifters, in addition to a 36 hole front and rear wheelset (Mavic Open Pros). I put an emphasis on durability over weight or price as I weigh 255 lbs and will use this bike for commuting as well as off road and loaded touring. As a result my final cost estimate is right around $1600 (I think). The ride is comfortable and fast and should be competent for all kinds of riding. I initially chose the bar end shifters for: reliability and ease of service and access to parts, and price (Ultegra STI-expensive). If your handlbar height is sufficient you'll enjoy these shifters. They are more of a reach that STI and as such you think someone else may outshift you, but if you're in the drops or on the hoods and hammering, they work surprisingly well. I've discovered that, for normal riding, you'll be somewhat discouraged from frequent shifting, but I think my legs are stronger for it. The frame is taught but forgiving and the horizontal rear dropout allows you to position your wheel for different types of riding (it does make a difference in terms of comfort and agility). It is a beautiful bike and I'm hesitant to get it too dirty (although I accidently dropped it yesterday and scuffed up the rr derrailleur-oh well).