Well. I've got alot to think about and possibly research - but I'm giving the Aurora six months - I want to get some more use out of it. Catriona: Yeah, I think I mash gears on the Aurora but spin on the 520 now that I think about it. Also, yeah I think it would be slow and steady on the LHT (which it is built for.) I've just had some say it's the "bike to get." I like to find what fits. MartianDestiny: They don't have the same tires. The 520 has Race Lite Hardcase 32's and the Aurora has some Vittoria (spelling is prob. bad sorry) Randonneurs 32's. I do think the Aurora flexes quite a bit. The other bike seeming stiffer. You gals have helped me peg what I do and don't like in a bike in general. It seems silly. I've been riding for years but never really thought about why I liked some bikes and disliked others. I'm going to give it some thought and do some more research. Thanks for the advice on all counts ladies. You're wonderful.