Emily - I have a 44cm specialized and 6.5 size foot. While it doesn't have toe overlap, it does have a much larger fork rake than my previous Fuji (49cm) did and both bikes have 700cc wheels (the Fuji was too big). I also have a Terry classic with a 24/700 combo on a slightly larger frame (since the tt was shorter, I could ride a 19'). There is a HUGE handling difference between my Terry and my Specialized. The Specialized is sluggish...though I never thought so until I got used to the Terry. Most people don't believe that there could be a difference or that it would be in that direction. A stiff and light aluminum road bike has more sluggish steering than a steel touring bike with thick tires? Yep!

I'm awaiting the arrival of a new Terry Isis which will have 650s, so I'll be able to offer an additional comparison by the end of the week (Yipee!). I loved how my Classic felt/fit so much that I wanted a 'go fast' bike from Terry.

I also agree with Lisa. You cannot fairly compare the ride difference between a 700x25 and a 650x23. Both of my road bikes have 23's and while I think they ride fine, my husband switched from a 700x25 to a 700x23 for one ride and HATED them. He promptly went back to the 25's for the smoother ride. He said the slightly reduced rolling resistance was not noticible enough to put up with the rougher ride.