Ahhhh I have always wanted a pink bike. But buying on what fits, and what is right for me has never quite taken me to the elusive pink bike.... Until now...
Meet "Pinky"
http://s11.photobucket.com/albums/a1...wflatty005.jpg

She's my new flat bar roadie and I LOVE her. I wasn't sure how I would like her coming off of a full carbon/dura ace tri machine, but she does just fine.
Yes I do notice the harsher ride, but I'm going to change out a few things like the bar and seatpost.
I was also concerned about going backwards into a less expensive grupo, but I really haven't noticed much of a difference? Maybe I'm a bit dim?? Or maybe it's just that 4 yr old dura ace isn't that much different from todays tiagra??
I know that's a stretch, but really she does shift fine, and is nice and quiet.
I've also found that despite the upright position and wider tires I'm able to stay close to my average speed on my tri bike.
On the tri bike I average around 16mph, on pinky I'm averaging 15.2. So not bad.
Overall I think this is a great option for someone wanting to ride road for fitness, or who is a mtn biker who wants the option to do some road rides with friends. I'm going to use her as a commuter, as well as a training bike.

Oh- and the only other thing I have to change out is the saddle. I need my selle smp!! - If anyone has one they are selling PM me!!
Wider is not always better, and the stock saddle is wide. UGH

Next bike for me will be the Giant avail alliance (carbon alu mix). Just waiting for them to come in.

Whoo hoo the bike shop owner is FINALLY getting new bikes!!!!

- Oh and the name pinky... that was my nickname as a kid.