thanks, good advice

Yes, I went through to the next city over and got a 'bikefitting.com' style fitting, and so I have diagrams of the measurements to go for.

The Giant fits those measurements well, and seemed to feel right to ride. Although I know Giant are a big name in men's road racing, I haven't seen much talk of these women's models at all - so that's making me a little dubious if they're a good buy, or would be good to resell in a year or so - if I get really into the sport and can afford a carbon upgrade

The 2007 Bianchis aren't in store as yet, so I guess I have to wait a bit longer to see what that one feels like. But yes, both are aluminium with carbon forks.