Thinking of purchasing a road bike for $1000

Hi- I am a relatively new commuter (I have been commuting since January- about 16 mi/day on a Jamis Coda Sport 2008). I really like my bike, but since I have started riding, I realized that I am interested in participating in races and group rides so, I have been thinking about purchasing a road bike as well. I have "tried on" the Jamis Aurora to get a sense of the fit as my LBS told me they could get me a deal on a Jamis Quest 2007. I have also tried the Surly Cross Check and found it to be fairly uncomfortable. I was wondering if anyone has any experience with the Jamis Quest, either WSD or not, or if anyone has any suggestions. Thanks!

No experiences with the Quest. However, it might help to know what didn't feel right about the cross check, so that we can point you in other directions. I use my cross check as a road bike, but it wouldn't be my choice for races or fastish group rides (too heavy).

Great job on the commute!!

I don't have any experience with any of them, but I'm curious about your experience with the Aurora and the Cross Check. I am considering both of them. What was uncomfortable about the Cross Check? Were you on the right size?

If you like your Coda, the Quest will likely seem very familiar. Do take your time and ride a few models at the right size to determine which bike will be best for you though.

I have a Coda (I love it) and if I were looking for a road bike I'd look at Jamis bikes again. But I already have two road bikes in addition to my Coda.

I am not sure exactly what was uncomfortable about the Cross Check. I just remember thinking that it was painful while I was on it. The Aurora was just comfortable the whole time I was on it.

My LBS kept trying to remind me that I am used to a "very comfortable" bike when I am on my commuter, so the Cross Check is likely to feel a little harder. Although, I was fine on the Aurora. So, my answer is extremely unhelpful. :)

I am interested in participating in a some organized rides and maybe some "little" triathalons, so is the weight of the bike is extremely important? The quest is about 19.5 lbs. My commuter is about 26 lbs, plus my bag (who knows- too heavy), rack, fenders, etc. . .

Was it the saddle? The bars? The reach?

Any bike should be comfortable. If the Cross Check was uncomfortable and you can't narrow it down to something as simple as the saddle or the height of the bars, then move along.

An uncomfortable bike will not magically become comfortable later.
If it ain't true love (even if it's challenging true love) keep looking.

(I've ridden both Aurora and CC, and felt passionate love for the CC. If your passionate love was for the Aurora, then go with that. You know what feels best, and no-one else can tell you otherwise.)

BTW: bike weight doesn't matter nearly as much as bike fit/comfort.