Thank you both for your input! I did some more research and I'm going with the Cannondale. Both bikes were from "local" shops but the place I'm buying the Cannondale from is less intimidating and I left with a better feeling. Plus they offered to put on a shorter stem, work with me on the fitting(s) and 10% off shoes and other accessories. And, yes, the Cannondale is blue-utiful! :-)