I don't regret buying my road bike. I sort of regret buying my hybrid as I haven't ridden it since I bought the roadie, but even though it was an expensive "mistake," it's what started me on the road, so to speak, to cycling. I'm ready to find a new home for the hybrid though.

I agree that you should first determine what your cycling needs are and what kind of riding you want to do and where before buying a road bike. And once you decide to buy a road bike, I'd suggest investing some time and energy in learning about them, what options are out there, how to get fit on a road bike, etc. before plunking down any money.

K-