Thanks for your comments and advice Miranda. I looked at your links. Your bike is beautiful... and I too love the black tube running up to the seat post.

Your accident sounds awful. I can't believe the stupid dog owner. We ride in the "country" too and encounter dogs... have had a few of my riding buddies crash with dogs while riding together. Highly upsetting that dog owners are not more responsible.

I trust you are all recovered and you go that century in?

I'll let you know what I buy after I do some test rides. Gotta figure out if I can ride an Orbea or not. Hmmm.

Roberta