Trek 2 and 1 Series

I was at my LBS getting a street bike for my son and came across one of these in the store.

I don't remember which one it was but for a beginner on a street bike it seemed perfect and a decent price in case I killed it. Yes, I was looking at the Dolce, but it's far too advanced for my pathetic skills.

I have a Specialized Sirrus that I really like, but wondered if this was a great beginning street bike since it's KISS simple.

Or, just wait until my riding skills are much better and not worry about it. It's just been calling my name everytime I see it in the window since I first walked in the store for my first bike. I've been ignoring it, until today and liked it despite my brain and hand coordination not working well together.

The 1 and 2 series are essentially in the same category of bike as the Dolce. Mechanically there is little or no difference in complexity. Note that the REAL equal to the Dolce in Trek's side of the aisle is actually the LEXA...not the (mens) 1 and 2 series.
If I had to guess...some road models appear more intimidating to you than others based on price, size or appearance.
My advice...Find a shop that makes you feel comfortable, not rushed, and takes the time to address any fears you have about road bikes. Explain to them the type of riding you see yourself doing over the next year or so and ask them to help you decide on a model. Go on simple quiet test rides on a few models. Think about comfort not mechanical hoo-ha.
Then, pick the bike that feels the most natural, confidence inspiring and comfortable....That should be your bike.

I have a 2010 Dolce Sport (double, Sora/Tiagra) and a 2009 2.1 WSD (triple, Tiagra/105) and they both are great bikes, but different. I actually got the Dolce first and it was comfortable from the git go (probably a better fitting). It is a more relaxed geometry like the Lexa (Trek calls it an H3). I was surprised how comfortable it was since this was my first road bike and I am no Spring chicken. I purchased the 2.1 a couple of months later and the shop did a minimal fitting, but I couldn't pass up a super deal on this orange/cream beauty. It has a more agressive geometry than the Dolce, but after many tweaks, the Trek is just as comfortable and faster (I think because it is lighter). For me, the Dolce is for shorter rides, like around the neighborhood or on the bike path at the park. The Trek 2.1 WSD is the one I use for the longer faster rides (30+ miles) with friends from the bike club. The bottom line here is get what you like and fits you well. The better the fit, the more you like it and the more you will ride!!!!!!

Enjoy
P2

Fit and comfort are the most important. When pricing and comparing though, Trek usually puts better components on for comparable bikes than Specialized usually making it a better bang for your buck. Your mileage, and what your LBS is willing to do for you, may vary.

I went from a Sirrus to the Dolce 05 only because I wanted more of a road bike to keep up with my gf and dh. The Dolce is a great entry level road bike. I put 4,000 mi on that bike without a problem including a couple of centuries and metrics. In 2007 I got the Ruby only because I wanted the more forgiving carbon. I LOVE both bikes. I had sold the Dolce after getting the Ruby and was greatly disappointed in that decision. Last year I won a Dolce in a raffle and it is now my tool around bike and what I ride in inclement weather. That is only because I have the upgraded Ruby otherwise it makes a great road bike for whatever riding you do.

As far as Specialized vs Trek, go by fit. As far $$ at least in my neck of the woods Specialized superceeds Trek in many areas. We are not found of all that Bontreger equipment. That is just our opinion, however.

I have the Trek 1.1 WSD, which I don't believe they make anymore. The Lexa replaced it last year, and it is essentially the same bike. The Dolce is comparable to these bikes. I love my Trek. Even for an entry level bike, it gets the job done remarkably well. I've never ridden the Dolce, but a friend of mine picked one up last year and hasn't had any complaints yet.