Subject: RE: New Bike or New Bike Frame and Build?I recently built a Kestrel Talon that was a warranty replacement from my brother's old 2004 frame. While I went with a little nicer components than I would have gotten had I purchased a complete frame, I also spent a bit more. In total, I think my outlay on the bike was around $1800-$2000 for group, wheels, seat, pedals, handlebars, stem, aerobars and build. The difference is, I had my bike built with better parts (SRAM Force, road config w/ clip ons ) than the 105 (TT config which is cheaper for the group ) that comes on the $1600 bike from BikesDirect. I may actually pick up a integrated cockpit, shifters and brakes after my first HIM to give my bike a little more life until I buy an actually dedicated TT bike. So my cost of $1800-$2000 was without frame. If you are ok with slightly lower end components (ie 105 vs Ultegra ) or a previous year model you will always get a better deal buying a complete bike. |