Hi! I've been lurking for a while now. Loved reading about everyone's favorite bikes. Actually helped me in deciding to get my vita elite! I'm in love with her but am considering doing some more serious road biking. I tried a 51 and a 54 dolce. The 54 fit fantastic once they flipped the handlebar stem over. The 51 felt cramped and actually hurt when I rode it. I'm currently trying to find a used one. I'm 5'6" tall without shoes.

I found an 09 ruby elite in my price range. And in a size 54. The current geometry listed on the specialized site makes the two sound nearly identical other than the standover height. Has that been everyone else's experience? Lbs did not have a ruby I could try.

Should I drive an hour away and try this ruby or should I steer clear? Is it too much bike for a beginner road cyclist?