Looking to buy a road bike in Los Angeles area, help?

[Bluetree]

the only two widely available options I know of are the Specialized Dolce/Ruby 44cm and Lexa SLX 43cm or Madone 5 or greater 43cm frame

The Madone 47s and Jamis femmes have a sub -70 standover too, but they are probably out of your price range. Felt offers an XS with a smaller standover with 650 wheels and their entry level starts at around $800. Good luck finding a shop with one in stock, though.

Just as important, XS Treks, Felts, Jamis and Specs have top tubes shorter than 50cm. Unless you have disproportionately longer arms for your torso, this is an important consideration. A top tube longer than 50cm may force you to shorten your stem beyond 80 or 90cm, which will make your bike feel squirrely. Orbea, Giant, Cervelo and Cannondale have longer top tubes.

I recommend looking for a 44 Spec Dolce first. It is in your price range and you might find a really good deal on a 2010 – you should get at least 20% off last year's model. Don't be afraid to ask if they will upgrade you to the 105 level, minimum. They want to get older stock out to make space for the 2011s.