I made up my mind I will wait until March and get the 2010 model on sale - it is the best bike for the money AND I will be able to get it for less than I can currently get a 2009. I had a heart-to-heart talk with the purchasing manager of my LBS.

The 2006 model doesn't have as many gears, and I really have to save up for it anyway... I am as excited as a kid though - am really looking forward to getting my first bike. Hopefully the weather this winter won't be so bad that I can't meet with my bike riding instructor a few times to get a little practice in. I did NOT learn how to ride as a child...