Newbie - Out of shape - HILLS - Right Bike?

[KathiCville]

My DH wants me to try out a Fuji Silhouette that he found at Performance Bikes. The Fuji would take me up to a carbon frame and Ultegra components for about the same price. I'm going to give it a try today, but after reading some of the comments regarding service at PB, I'm a little wary. I found the Dolce at my lbs where they have a solid reputation for great customer service.

I just bought the Fuji Silhouette about three weeks ago, also at my local Performance shop. [I have the benefit of having a BF who lives to tinker with bikes, so ongoing service isn't an issue. Plus he knows all the guys in the PB shop anyway. ]

BF thought the price was pretty amazing for an all-carbon frame and solid-quality components. With an extra 10% off promo, it came in at around $1300 on a MSRP of $2500...... That being said, I wanted a triple (to handle the hilly Blue Ridge where I live), so we switched out the double drivetrain almost immediately. [The double will go on another bike, so everything will be put to good use!]

I'm still getting used to the Silhouette, but wow, what an improvement over the heavier Schwinn I've been riding for the past 18 months or so. I'm still fiddling with getting the saddle, handlebars, and stem just right, but so far, so good! It handles well, and I'm already seeing a jump in my average speed on routes that I ride regularly. I haven't taken it out to the Blue Ridge Parkway yet---the local 'acid test' for hill climbing---but based on hilly rides closer to home, I think I'm going to be very happy with my choice. Addendum: I logged my fastest av ever on Tuesday morning, yeehaw! 2mph faster than I usually do on this a.m.'s route.

By the way, while I was in the store, debating whether to buy the Silhouette or a less expensive Fuji model, I noticed a woman hovering nearby, watching me spinning lightly on the Silhouette. Finally she came over and said, "I've had this bike for a year now and LOVE it. You won't regret making the choice." Her words alone wouldn't have swayed me, but it was nice to hear someone with a year's worth of experience with this particular bike give it high marks.