xc runner looking for used bike. He had a great swim on Sat(300y-3:45), but using old steel frame killed him on the bike.....solid run 7:30ish.
Perhaps said xc runner could benefit as much from more Time In The Saddle as he could from a new bike. Easy to blame the equipment, more difficult to blame lack of training.
Check LBS, local cycling clubs, Craig's list, and ebay for used bikes.