My gf and I both just bought OCR3s--our first road bikes. I really like it. After being used to a mtn bike, this bike seemed so amazingly light and responsive. I too have been told that Sora sucks. But we had to stay under $600, and I don't know if it's possible to get a (new) bike for that price with better than Sora. But I figure the components aren't that important as they are replaceable and upgradable. I was much more concerned about frame and fit and simply liking to ride the bike.