Quote Originally Posted by Becky View Post
Absolutely, it's a great idea! I bought my carbon Fuji that way. It was 2009, they stopped making them in 2008, sold out of my size in the 2008, but there was a 2007 with a nearly-identical spec sitting in a warehouse. Never been unpacked, built, nothing....winner!

I prefer building my own bikes from the frame up. That way, I get to spec every single part to exactly my needs. No take-offs, upgrades, nothing....just my perfect bike. I enjoy the wrenching part too

If it were me, I'd go to the shop sometime when you know they won't be busy (not Saturday ), and have a good chat with your favorite mechanic or mech-savvy salesperson about parts that fit your budget and riding style. Maybe even ride a few bikes with different parts just to see what you like, especially if you don't already have some strong preferences for certain components.

As for wheels, I like reliable handbuilts....no bling, but durable, light, and easy to get replacement spokes for. Proprietary spokes make me batty.

Have fun with it!!
What Becky said. I'd also suggest getting the geometry specs for the bike just to make sure that it's comparable to what you've already ridden (the 54 men's version). I would try to get a preliminary quote on the build from the shop to make sure it's within your budget. You can tweak it later, but at least get a good ballpark figure first, as there can be a bit of sticker shock when you add it all up. I'd second the suggestion for a decent pair of handbuilts. That's what I have. Nothing too blingy; just a nice quality build.