Try as many bikes as you can. Also, try bikes that are above and below your price point as well so you can see the difference(advantages/disadvantages) that each possess. Most bikes come w/a carbon fork so this should not be a focal point. I would stay away from triple chainrings (on cranks) since most road bikes are not design to have triples on them (shifting is not as crisp). If you plan on climbing a lot, then look at compact cranks. Don't fall for the "women specific" marketing hype....Women and men are not that different as far as bike fitting goes. Women tend to be shorter in height (in general) therefore women specific bikes tend to have more smaller frame sizes. A women who is 5'4" tall will fit the same size bike as a man who is the same height (all things being equal). This is why Cervelo does not produce WS bikes. Any LBS worth it weight will make the final adjustments and swap out parts to fit you (i.e. handlebar width, stem length). Have fun and enjoy test riding bikes....it is the best part of buying a new bike.