massbikebabe,

My Trek 5200WSD bike, new this year, fits me as close to perfect as a non-ciustom bike could possibly fit. I still am amazed at how much better it feels than any other bike I have ever owned. I am 5'2 (almost). I got the 51 cm frame size. Could never have done that on a bike with 700 cc wheels. I have the seatpost at a nice height, not as low as it can go! I didn't have to switch to a shorter stem. I have NO shoulder or neck aches, even after centuries. As for the smaller wheels, you simply adjust and use different gearing. I honestly think the smaller wheels, which are automatically going to be lighter than comparable wheels of the same size, make it easier on hills. I climb better on this bike. I am not much of a sprinter, but I feel like it's a little bit easier to jump into a sprint with the smaller wheels. There really isn't anything about the bike that I don't like. You do have to make sure you have your own spare tubes (plus patch kit) because borrowing tubes from others often isn't an option. It's also tougher to find tires that you like in a 650 size. Aside from those two minor things, I have nothing to complain about! I love the bike. So.......... there's a ringing endorsement. Let us know what you decide to get and how you like it...

Oh, and as for the saddle, I went with the Bontrager WSD Ti saddle, thinking if I didn't like it I would just switch it out. I am still riding it and not having any problems at all! Surprised me. I've ridden it all summer, on numerous centuries and a week long ride. It felt good from the start. So you never know. Don't judge by how it feels to anyone but yourself. And if you are spending that much money on a bike, the shop you get it at had better be willing to swap out the saddle for you if you don't like it!

Most computers have similar functions. I love my Flight Deck, but I know lots of people who don't care for them. It's fun to have all that info at your fingertips. I am spoiled now and miss it when I ride other bikes. It would be great to have a computer that measure wattage, too, like the pros have, but I can't justify spending that much!!!