Thanks so much for all the suggestions. I rode a bike we bought off of ebay last year in, and around town, and in a few charity rides and had nothing but problems. Of course the bike only cost us less than $200. Which goes to show you get what you pay for. But I just had to have that particuliar one and at that time we were just getting into biking and really didn't know it was not the "RIGHT" one.....at all!!!

This year we have decided to upgrade to newer and much better bikes. So with that, I want to be well informed on what I choose. We have been to several LBS's in our area, and like I said, the Giant OCR stands out, as far as what is in our price range....which is around $1000.00 or so.

I have to admit my DH is wonderful about the whole thing. I mean I am being very picky this time around. And he is only trying to find a bike that he thinks will suit me, but also has the specifics he looks for in a good bike.

As far as the Bottecchia goes, I had never heard of it and didn't want to go down the same road as last year. So I knew if anyone knew, or didn't know, anything about the Bottecchia, TE girls would.

Thanks again...and if anyone knows of another great bike for less than a $1000.00 please let me know. Any suggestions would be very helpful and much appreciated.