Well, I'm now officially a cyclist or biker, or wannabe or whatever I should call myself since I have a bike, but really haven't ridden anywhere yet!!!

After lots of reading, researching, test rides, etc, I settled on an '05 Specilized Dolce Comp!!! I was looking at the '06 Trek Pilot 2.1 as the runner up. It was a tough choice, but it came down to the fact that the Comp had some better components, and it felt better on the ride (especially when I did a standing climb). It also helped that the Comp was on sale (last year's model), and I was able to talk the salesperson down another $100 (and got him to throw in the clipless pedals too). That brought it down under what the other store was selling the Trek for. I could have gone back and tried to get the Trek down, but I really just liked the Comp better!!!!

It's sure is pretty! Now I just need to practice clipping in and out so I don't kill myself when I venture out of the neighborhood!!! Of course now that I've made the commitment expect it to start snowing in N.VA so I can't ride the bike!!!

Thanks for all the advice, and I'm sure I'll have tons more questions as I get used to the new bike!!! I can't wait to take her out for a long ride!!!

Cathy