rn2binca,
I currently ride a dolce elite (2004) and have loved it. I'm waiting on my pre-ordered Specialized Ruby to come in. I decided that it was time to upgrade. I've put about 4000 miles on the bike and have had it since last May. It's been a great bike. When I first bought it, I had some problems with the chain always falling off - I think since it was a triple crank, with a tiagra front derailleur, that was giving me problems. So my LBS pulled off the triple crank, and installed a double crank for me, and it solved my problems with that issue.

As for the wheels I just recently bought a new front wheel (I crashed into a railing on a bridge when I was crossing the Potomac - I was looking out over the water and not paying attention to where I was going - luckily I didn't fall or hurt myself - I recovered quickly - but it did put a dent in my front wheel that became annoying when using the front brakes). The rear wheel is still original. The specialized all condition pro tires lasted me for about 3000 miles when I decided it was time to get new ones (not that they were too bad but I also wanted the light blue michelin pro race tires) and I use the old ones for the trainer.

So all in all - it's been a wonderful bike - it fits me so well and that's a reason why I'm sticking with specialized for my next bike. Oh, for the wheels being 700 cc - I really like that too about the specialized women's bikes - it makes it a lot easier to find tubes and tires - and to find them on sale. My tri bike has 650 wheels and it's a hassle! And too, if you're riding with guys (like me) - they all have 700 cc wheels on their bikes, so if you get a flat and for some reason don't have an extra tube, you know somebody you're with will have the same size tube that you need.

Good luck in your decision - I haven't decided if I'm going to sell my Dolce or keep her for a winter riding bike. She's a 44cm, so unfortunately not your size......
Let us know what you decide on!
-j