My LHT build cost me about 1800SGD with a full LX setup + fenders + surly rear rack. Of course, you will be able to save $$ if you avoid some of the frills. I am in the process of setting up another bike (may be a LHT or somthing else) and a quote for the components (LX) ran to about 1200 SGD. You add the cost of the frame and it would work out to about the same price too. Check with som local shops to see if you can get a better price. Else you can check out the forum (www.togoparts.com) for some 2nd hand components. I dont think you will save much by shipping from the US anyway.

As for the 520, it is a nice bike too. I test rod one and found the top tube slightly longr. Apart from the fact that it comes in 2" increment in sizes, I see not much difference in terms of the ride. I suppose setting up a LHT would be cheaper than getting a stock 520 and I would do that...