Will this bike make me faster?

[Aggie_Ama]

Drat! I just looked at the price for last year's Contessa CR1 and it is too high for us.

I want to test the Contessa Speedster when it releases this fall. I am not sure how I will like aluminum (my bike is steel), but it is much more budget friendly. If I get it I must find wine/maroon bar tape! My mom said she might consider bike shop gift cards for Christmas and my birthday (February). I wish I could wait to have $2000 to spend, but I don't think my bike is going to go another 2,000+ miles.

Question: Will upgrading to Shimano 105 from Shimano Sora help my riding? I know 105 is still not great, but we have a small budget! I find many times I have shifting problems. After countless tune ups and a DH who keeps my bike well cleaned and lubed, it still is only a little bit better.

I hate the dream vs. reality part of starting to look at new bikes.