Thanks for the responses posted so far. It's pretty cool for me to get feedback from women in at least 3 different "CAT" levels of competition. I really appreciate the point-by-point answers each of you gave.

And I appreciate the "invite" to keep an eye on your blog, Andrea. It is almost as cool as the bar tape on your surly Good luck with becoming a "nationally competitive road cyclist" ... and thanks for the glimpse into the process.