Also do you guys think $280 is too much for the road bikes posted on that photobucket?
Some, not all.
Also is it true that the difference between centurion iron man dave scott and the iron man dave scott master was the components on the bikes? 105 on regular dave scott and 600 on dave scott master?
A "Regular" Dave Scott Ironman had no Expert or Master designtation, and was Shimano 600. When the model separated into Expert and Master, the Expert had Shimano 105 until 1989, when it went to Suntour GPX components, including hubs. The Master had all Shimano 600, ending with the Shimano 600 tri-color in 1989. The frames from the onset were Tange 1 Japanese, and the 1989 models shared a Tange Levin CD headset, from what I've seen.
I have been scouring ebay and local CLs (los angeles/orange county/san diego) for about 2 months now. Looking on these sites everyday, and reading any reviews I can find about the bikes I see for sale. This is almost becoming an obsession.
Tell us about it.... 
I spend about 3 hours a day looking through ebay and CL, and roadbikereview or bikeforums, and I'm a college student and should be studying. But i'm the type of person that when i have my mind focused on something, its hard for me to focus on other tasks till its done. After all this searching and comparing prices, I'm still not sure how much I should be spending on an old, used road bike.
I would like shimano 105 or 600 components. I would also like it to be a lightweight bike made in the 80s or 90s. I am looking to spend $350 max. I am also trying to get the best bang for my buck. I also want a quick, responsive ride, so no touring bikes, preferably road or triathlon bikes. What price range would you guys tell me to look at? I dont want to get duped buying a used bike for more than its worth. My friend said that if its used and from 90s, he wouldn't buy it if it was over $200. But then again he owns a 2006 $700 specialized allez and I dont think he realizes the appeal and life old school bikes still have.
Does it seem like I am being too picky?
Nope. Am I spending too much money?
Nope.
I hope to use the bike to ride for long distances (+40 miles) and to explore orange county with it.
Do you guys think old school aluminum bikes are too harsh for long distance?
I don't, but I'd prefer a carbon fork on one. For example i've read cannondale r600 or raleigh technium trilite (also in the photobucket) are really harsh and can give you carpal tunnel.
?? Not sure here, it's a repetitive motion disorder, and I doubt you're pedaling with your hands....but I know little else about it.
I want to go fast on the bike. I do own a fixed gear that I ride everyday to school but sometimes I feel it is not fast enough, therefore the switch to gears.
What do you guys think is the best choice?
First, get the proper size.
At $350, I'd find a Panasonic, Miyata, Centurion Ironman, mabye a Bridgestone or a Fuji in chrome-moly lugged, with the 105 or 600 stuff you like. I'd get it as cheap as possible, $250 or less if you can, and save some for the random variables that may/may not come with the bike (a saddle you can handle, pedals you can use, decent tires/tubes, etc) If it works well, you can either ride it as is or look to some simple and inexpensive upgrades that will keep you on it for years.
Also if you have owned any of the above bikes, could you please describe how the ride was on the bike, any pros, and more importantly cons. it would be very helpful. thanks.
