Just the Frame or the Whole Shebang?

[mimitabby]

I also ride a "light" steel bike which comes in over 20 pounds and under 25.
Unless you throw away your waterbottles and cut off your hair, i'm not sure the 5 less pounds a lighter frame buys you is going to help THAT much. What helps is strengthening your legs.

I had a frame made for me (vertically challenged), and while I was waiting I bought parts - some on sale, some from a swap meet, and some for full price.
Then i had a pro assemble it.

[Mr. SR500]

A complete bike is almost always a better deal, when you consider wheels and components. If you have some parts, or want very specific parts then a frame set makes more sense. But without bike building experience, a complete bike is by far a better choice. Maybe even for only a few dollars more then the frame set.