I've had a Giant OCR 3 for a year and it is my first road bike. It's been good for me to learn the basics and to know for sure if I really wanted to stick with cycling. But it's good that you are going for the OCR 1 since it will have better components and won't be as heavy. I'm having trouble getting up the hills and even going fast due to bike weight. My hubby decided I needed a new bike a few weeks ago and I finally made my decision last night. I'll be upgrading to the Giant TCR Composite 2 which I get to pick up today!! The OCR 1 will be a great beginner bike for you. Ride it for a year and then you can upgrade.