Hey Babarn,
Take a look at the previous posts for some suggestions... Here's mine, If you live somewhere that has a bike "co-op" check there and see about resurrecting a classic touring frame. For some types of riding an older MTB frame with 26" wheels makes a good "base" to build on. Start with a bare frame and add parts to suit the type of riding you're going to be doing. You can wind up with a darn nice bike that way. You also gain valuable experience putting together a bike yourself, if anything goes wrong, you'll know how to fix it, you're not out thousands of dollars, and you've helped to keep one more bike OUT of a landfill!
Only hard and fast "rule"? MAKE SURE THE FRAME FITS YOU!
Last edited by scruffyboy; 01-12-09 at 08:43 AM.