Hi Amy, I purchased my road bike about four months ago. I love it. I went from a hybrid to the road bike, following the same path as others before me.

I just want you to know that I have back problems too, which is arthritis in the spine and two bad disks. When I injure the back again, like in a fall, and the sciatic nerve becomes inflamed, and I have nasty pain, I can still bike. That is how good the road bike is for a bad back.

Regarding the cost, everyone on this forum is a different age and a different level of income, so would have a different perspective as to the cost of your bike. I paid about $3500 for my Trek Pilot 5.2 WSD, which was the bike plus some extras, and the LBS was happy for the cash transaction. I didn't think the bike was too expensive, not for me anyway, but yes, if I was in college or still at an age where I was paying off the mortgage, then that amount would cause me some anguish. But I am 53, with zero debts, and a solid income flow, so the bike was not expensive for me. That is how you need to look at it. And like others said, this money will be the best money you ever spent. Until you decide you want one of the $20,000 bikes.

Another thing I might mention is I had the LBS put on additional brake levers on the straight part of the bar. With my bad back, I don't have any flexibility in the spine, and in going down the long descents, having the brakes up closer gives me more control without making my spine stretch so that the hands can remain near the brakes. It makes perfect sense for me because I have no desire to race or compete or train with others. I am a rural rider and I ride solo most of the time. Additional brake levers might make sense for you too, though you are an urban club rider. There are a lot of hills where you live.

Please post a photo of the bike when you get it.

Darcy