missmaya-when you do start to race let me know where you will be. I am going to be at most of the FPS races!

Sorry about the crack, cracks happen! I know people who have had them in pretty much every brand(giant,crackendale...oops i mean cannondale,trek,etc.) Use the warranty and hope it doesn't happen again is all I can really say- it isn't specific to just one company.

While off the bike, swim and run if you can- also incorporate plyometrics into your day and go to spin classes. But I would suggest swimming as the #1 option for cross training while off of the bike.