I'm so happy!

[Medianox]

After waiting for what seemed like forever (but was really only 2 months) we went bike shopping today and, for my 48th birthday, I am now the new owner of a Felt Z80 (51cm)!!!!!:D We went to 4 bike shops and I tried Specialized, Trek, Giant and Felt. I was looking to try a couple of other makers (Kona, Surly, Salsa) but couldn't find any in my size (short). After thinking it over I went with the Felt...it immediately was comfortable and seemed like it wanted to fly! The others were good too (I especially liked the Dolce I tried) but I always came back to the Felt-as soon as I got on it was like part of my body and the others were either too cramped or felt stiff and unbalanced to me.
Now of course, its 103 degrees :( and I have to wait until the morning to give it its maiden run....but its parked beside my bed so I can see it when I wake up!!
I can't wait!!!!
Oh yeah, I got a nice new red helmet too to match the blood red finish on the bike!

[GulfCoastAmy]

Congrats! (I am totally jealous!)

[jobob]

Whee! Happy birthday, indeed. :cool:

[momtohanna]

Happy Birthday!!! How fun ~ please post pics so we can all drool over your new bike. :)

[DDH]

what a great birthday present. Happy birthday and congratulations on the new bike. I second, pictures please.

[owlice]

Happy birthday and happy riding!!!

[rubywagon]

I googled it, and that is one pretty bike. Congratulations and happy birthday!

[Medianox]

Thanks everyone! I couldn't be happier with it...I seriously slpet with it right by my bed, just so I could see it first thing when I woke up! (I'm such a nerd lol). I'll get some pics up when I come back! Going to take her (are bikes *she*?? :)) here in a few as soon as it gets light enough and see how far I can go!

[Tri Girl]

Yipeeee!!!! :D:D:D:D:D:D
Congrats on your new bike! I can't wait to hear how your first ride went. :)

[graceomalley]

Happy birthday to you and congrats on the new baby! :D

[Medianox]

LOL! Sorry about pictures but I took it out this morning and got a flat after 11 miles....Of course I didnt have anything with me What could happen on my first ride, right? LOL Silly me.
BUT...before that it was heaven! The gears shift effortlessly and I was flying along at speeds that I could only imagine before...my base rate, just pedaling along was 12mph! When I tried a little, I was up to 18.5!
I can't wait to get to know this bike better and look forward to many miles of good times with it! Thanks for sharing my excitement and joy-I totally get why people love riding now! All I need now is a nice name for her...
And pictures soon I promise!:) Until then, here's the catalog pic from the website:

[Medianox]

Update!
Her name is Zoe. :D I'm still in love,and looking for ways to get out and ride longer all the time.
Wow...what a difference a bike can make! Thanks to everyone for sharing your expertise and wisdom...this is the best forum on this subject around!
Now I can't wait to get new pedals (gonna try clipless), rewrap the handlebars...maybe get a new saddle....need some waterbottle cages....a new computer....LOL!
At least my DH won't run out of ideas for Christmas and birthday presents anytime soon!

[azfiddle]

You sound deliriously happy with the new bike- have many happy miles.

Sharon

[OakLeaf]

Congrats! :D:D

[bmccasland]

Congradulations! May you have many happy miles together. I remember my speed increase when I went to a better bike. Nothing beats the feeling of being hot on a bike! :D

[Ja Da Dee]

What a great birthday gift!