A little introduction . . . I've been reading the forums for some time as I venture into the world (again) of bicycling buying. I've read/researched specs, components, reviews, etc. on the bikes I've listed.

About one and a half years ago, I had to give up (temporarily) road bike riding due to back/hip problems and my ortho doc suggested switching to a cruiser. So, I purchased a Jamis Boss Crusier (7 speed) and have been riding it 5-6 days/wk, 12-15 mi/ride ever since. My ortho has cleared me to go back to a road bike, so I'm looking to buy. Interesting to note - right about the time I started having back problems, my road bike was stolen from my back yard storage house (a little foreshadowing, perhaps!!). Anyway . . . I'm set on purchasing a Trek (great fit for my 5'8" frame), but am having a real tough time deciding which bike to purchase. (BTW, my last road bike was a Schwinn). In any event, I'm considering purchasing 1 of the 3 choices . . . here are the prices the LBS has offered me . . .

2006 Trek WSD 1000 - $485

2006 Trek WSD 1500 - $889

2005 Trek WSD 2100 - $1100

Obviously, the Trek 2100 is the best value choice, but I'm faced with the "guilty" choice. Having not been on a road bike in close to two years, going from a Cruiser to a lighter road bike will, in and of itself be a significant upgrade. So, will I really notice the component upgrades from the 1000 to the 2100? Also, I need to purchase all new gear (as that was stolen as well), which includes shoes, jerseys, shorts, computer, helmet, etc. Quite honestly, I feel guilty if I am to purchase the 2100 because I'll be spending an additional, say, $4-500 on gear, which brings me into the $1700 range, and, the forward thinker that I am, I'm thinking about the holidays (travel, gifts, etc.) and don't want to strap myself. Granted, I have the Trek card to purchase the 2100, but I don't want to just throw my plastic around.

Okay, so bottom line is, if I am beginning (again) what are your thoughts on going from the Cruiser to each of the bikes listed? Any input you are able to offer on each of the bikes would be sincerely appreciated. I understand in the end, the choice is ultimately up to me, but I would love to hear a woman's perspective (as the men friends I have, have all said "go with the 2100" - men tend to think differently than women when it comes to stuff like this - much like when they purchase a car!!)

Thank you in advance.

KJL in Miami