Yeah, I was aware of the strength and machining aspects of it, but as an engineer who's only worked in the space industry and not real industry, I assume they would have effectively neutralized the negatives. Judging by some of my searches carbon fiber and aluminum can still run into some problems, which is disappointing. I will definitely try to find a titanium bike. It helps that I have a love affair for all that is titanium already
On components. Are ultegras good? I see a lot of bikes advertising they have them on ebay. Do I desire something else?
Should I consider buying a frame and piecing components onto it on my own?