If you were to build a road bike for less than $400-500, what parts would you use?

Question

I am looking at finally getting into a road bike but am on a pretty small budget for the things I want and am looking at combining both new and used parts for gaining best in performance and lasting durability with value. This would be something I might do some very beginner racing but mainly just normal distance rides. I was thinking my emphasis would be on an aluminum frame and nothing less than Shimano 105 flight deck or equivilent. Please let me know what parts you would use, whether new or used, and where and when to buy them. Thanks

Answer 1

I'd hit ebay and take my time and get a complete bike.
In fact I just bought a used road bike on the bay a while back, it was full Campy 8 speed, lugged steel, genuine Italian, and including shipping it was under $500. Downsides - paint was well chipped up, and I swapped out the saddle and handlebars.

Answer 2

Building is more expensive than a complete bike purchase, no two ways about it. People part out there bikes to increase the sales value.

If you still want to build, like the 1st answer, all used parts from EBay. The only new stuff: brake pads, cables, tires and tubes, chain and if your budget allows a cassette. Most parts you can get cheap, the 3 things that will cost will be the frame, STI shifters and wheels. Don't try to pick up name brand for every thing.

Some items you can really get cheap are handle bars, stem, crank, tires, saddles, seat post. All these things can run big $$$ for high end stuff many times for very little gain.

Work up a build chart, listing all parts needed, you will see how you will be nickled and dimed well over $400.

As I see it:
frame: $120
wheels: $120
STI shifters: $100

That's finding a great deal for good used stuff and leaving you at $340, leaving $160 for a lot of stuff still. I'm sure you can do it, but you will have to find steals and work a budget. You'll have to buy no-name stuff at rock bottom prices. I'd say $600 will be about the best you can do if you're looking for 105 or better quality.

Answer 3

The other guys are right. Complete bikes can be had for a lot less than building something from parts (even used ones). Look on road bike review, ebay, or craigslist. A singlespeed CX'er or fixie could be an option as well. Last year my bro scored a sweet lugged steel CX bike with a nice mix of road and mtn. parts for $400 bucks off ebay. Keep your eyes peeled. Check ads daily.
Good Luck.

Answer 4

Search for a used complete bike. If you're on a budget, buying things separate will likely be a lot more expensive than buying a complete bike.

Answer 5

I would never think of building a bike to save money. Component costs will be way to high. I've seen some godd used complete bikes on ebay. Think trek 5200.