XMCarbonSpeed CS-GR029 as a commuter?

[jwilds1]

I'm back again, this time with a possible 3rd build.  First was an XMIPlay 29er, second was an eBay 14" 26er for my son (who has now outgrown - that'll be #4 probably in a few months), but now with a commuter build.

Right before the end of the year, I applied & got accepted for what would best be described as my DREAM JOB - doing exactly what I love, and the best part is it's a 6-mile commute from my home.  The build bug started to rear it's head as soon as I hit the "APPLY FOR THIS JOB" button 

I live in Southeast Michigan, and as such, can only commute by bike about 6 months in the year.  Additionally, I'll probably only be able to ride one or two days a week due to personal obligations.  That said, I enjoy the building process and this will be my one-and-only "Non-Trail" bike.

I'm currently evaluating the following components, and would appreciate another set or two of eyes to ensure I'm not getting into problems:

• XMCarbonSpeed CS-GR029 frame, UD Matte, 54cm
• XMCarbonSpeed NSS-GCX28 rims w/ Novatec Hubs & Sapim CX-Ray spokes
• SRAM Rival 1 42T Crankset
• SRAM Rival 22 Brifters
• SRAM PG-1130 11-36T 11-speed cassette
• Avid BB7 Road mechanical disc brakes
• SRAM Rival 1 Type 2.1 medium-cage rear derailleur
• FSA Cockpit
• Schwalbe Marathon Plus tires (had good success with them before)

I have never worked with SRAM components, so this will be new to me.  Also, this will be my first non-MTB build.

[carbonazza]

Congratulations for the dream job and this new build.
2018 seems to start well for you !

I decided for the same cassette for my upcoming gravel bike if that may comfort you in your choices 
The other parts look they will fit well together.
To me SRAM is more innovative, and have smart little features that I prefer over Shimano.

[jwilds1]

Thanks!!! 

The biggest difficulty for me has been assembling the groupset.  For builds 1 and 2, it was as easy as ordering 1 item (crankset, BB, front derailleur, rear derailleur, rear gears, brakes).  This time, unless I want to go with > $1k group, I have to order it in bits and pieces.

I was also able to find the correct brifter setup for the 1x (brake only left, 11sp + brake right) and that'll save me about $40.

[Srmanuel]

How much did you spend in total?

Any recommendations for spending around 1k?