posting troubles...continuing ---
    XC marathon or short?
    or cyclocross
  AM type setup
  or highend commuter

With that kind of budget, I would build a low weight racer.

Thought on friction free.  That, would be due to the higher quality bearing(s) in the DT240's I assume.
It would be interesting, at some point, somebody took the time to replace their off brand hubs with higher end bearings.
I have Bike Hub Store hubs that come with Enduro bearings...they turn fine....but nothing to compare to(will check out on the rides with somebody).
But otherwise, if the testing doesn't seem good to me, I may put in some higher end semi or full ceramic bearings to see how they roll(depending on expense to)

Sounds good to me, another idea is an area or section where one could post stuff they want to get rid of.
This may be opening a can of worms...probably limit it in some way.
Maybe 1 posting per month.
I personally might post something and if no interest move to craigslist, elsewhere.

A list of good stores for deals would be helpful also.

Wiggle and Merlincycles are pretty good prices and ship to US for free.

Masherz has a perpetuating 20% - have to search through their inventory bc prices are overall higher.
I bought my Stan's ZTR crest rims for 75.00 each and with bike hub store hubs, Sapim laser spokes, a local wheel builder have crest wheels for about 480.00 and weigh 1500grams

My brother had his Spec Camber and fiance's bike stolen out of his truck...in a store parking lot...used crowbar's and just wedged them out.  Ruined the connectors on his Toyota Tacoma truck.  He had to present all his receipts for all the parts he had upgraded to get those covered.  Also, his home insurance covered so the deductible was required(around 1600) but, I understood he could have gotten anything(he got the newest Spec Camber as he is stuck on Spec).  I will verify with him and update here.

It seems it takes away the infinite adjustability of most air shocks - which is actually where one sets it to their taste but the Fox  gives you, like, a half way point also vs., again, most are where you set them and locked out.....2 settings vs. 3(Fox CTD)

What size are you planning on for those stickers?
Chainstay size?
Or back bumper of car?