Michaela: Nope, I was on a pink one. I am interested to try a Ruby, too. Having a Specialized right now, with the zertz, I couldn't help but wonder if they really do help. I know what you mean about the Orbeas, though...to me they are just SOooo beautiful compared to what else is out there.

Also, I did a 7 day tour through Eastern WA a few years ago (and I used to live over there). I LOVE riding out on those country roads! Have you talked to BikerHen yet? She is over that way.

Julibird: Thanks. Yes, it was just a guesstimate for this ride. I did not set out to actually test any bikes that day...it was kind of a lark. I think the frame size was pretty close, because of a fit I had done at my shop recently, but I agree that if I was actually getting serious about putting the Diva on a short list, another test would be in order, with more customizing.

The thing I have not figured out yet is: The hoods feel a bit too far away, and the drops feel a bit close or high. Do others feel this way often? Wondering what fixes this...angle of bars, etc?