BUTCHBIKER said:
Yer i would like to know the answer to that too. Good question.......but will we ever know the answer???
There probably is not a single answer to this Q but I will offer a few options:-
1) If you are a dead set new cyclist, beg, borrow or steal [well don't steal] a bike & prove to yourself you will actually ride it regularly enough to warrant the purchase. You may also consider an Xmart <$100 job for that same reason. I see plenty of boats for eg in back yards, with weeds growing around the trailer & apparently not used. This could end up being your 1000$+ bike if you don't stick to riding.
2) Buy an entry level & wear out "bits" before replacing anything. This option will not give you a good frame though.
3) If you opt to go "boots & all" then the most cost effective way would be to spend as much money as you can reasonably afford, on the style of bike you need, which may invariably have better drive train [at least in part], tyres, wheels, saddle, bars, brakes etc with a lighter frame than a cheap bike. Most makers usually upgrade components progressively, including having higher gearing [for stronger riders] as the prices go up. To buy & then upgrade before parts wear out is a very poor option. Even tyres & chains, which are usually the first components to be replaced due to wear should be well worn before replacing/upgrading