I wasnt all that keen on buying an expensive road bike my first go-round either, but fell into a good deal on an older, but new stock Specialed Ruby. It was my first road bike and I was hesitant to buy to buy a full carbon bike as it was "more" then I needed, but now I am so glad I did, I love my bike. Its lightness helps me up the hills (not to mention a better ride) and it shifts so smooth and forgives my newbie stupid shifting maneuvers when I mess up.

Good luck!
Shannon