My 11 year old road bike is custom. As Denise said, I cannot imagine riding anything else. On my first ride, it fit like a really comfortable pair of shoes. Cornering, rough roads, etc., are so much easier. I like to ride long distances which means same position in the saddle and fit must be good.

I started on a Trek 1200 aluminum & road it for ~ 3-4 years before deciding that riding was my passion. I suggest that for anybody who is considering custom. It would be a shame to spend all that money & change your mind.