Hammer, glad you started this thread, as I need to learn about what I require for my first road bike, too. When I told my trainer at the gym that I want to do a century by next fall, he kinda made a face and said, "a century would be pretty difficult on your hybrid. Think about getting a road bike in the spring - do research this winter." The bad news for me is that I only spent $1500 on my CAR! (artist married to artist, 'nuff said.) So I gotta find my parameters and let help from the second-hand angels.

I agree with you on the pink issue. Now fuschia I could live with! Happy hunting!