Hmm. I've begun the reading to fill in the gaps in my Swiss cheese body of knowledge - which at this point is more gaps than solid stuff...
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cpach, the motive in cannibalizing the TCR is to use what I have instead of laying out cash on something else.
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Litespud, thinking back on Thursday stop at an LBS, and after reading your comment, I realize I could have done better with the title! While at that shop I looked at a honest to goodness, no denying it "frankenbike" that the shop owner had assembled from the parts boxes in his store. The frame is a women's Trek; the seat came off of a Haro, and the mismatched wheels are of questionable lineage (but the new tires match). The cassette is a shiny silver and the triple up front is black. Dang, that thing personifies ugliness and beauty all in one glance. Point taken on the hyperbole.
The idea is evolving for me, but my interest is increasing daily. Speaking metaphorically, I know where I want to end up with the Cannondale, but getting there is the active question of the trip.
Thanks again to all.