stapfam

I would not go by cost- but on quality.

Frames are a personal choice but every one seems to want C.F. Nowadays. But a $200 frame or one that costs a lot more?

Spec of the groupset and Most will agree that 105 would be the minimum- Ultegra better and Dure Ace far too expensive unless you really need it. Wheels and forget most machine built wheels- go hand built and one of the favourites are Ultegra Hubs mated to Mavic Open -Pro rims and a double butted spoke. You can go higher on spec and also lose wheel weight but Ultegra/ Open Pro is a high starting point. Then the anciliaries- and to an extent money spent on a saddle that is comfortable will be worth it and as you will rarely change bars- stems and other items- get as good as you can afford.

Sound expensive to get a Bike built in this way but looking at "Stock" bikesbuilt to this quality - you can start at around $1,000 and just go upwards. Might have to change a couple of things- like wheels and saddle but talk to the supplier and get what you need at this stage.

Just depends on what you do want on a bike.