cannondale synapse 5 vs. specialized amira comp

[KatzPajamas]

I also am new to road cycling as of May. I chose a Synapse after testing Giant Avail, Specialized Dolce, and Trek 3.2 and Cannondale Caad 10. The Caad was really nice but I could tell right away that it was way too aggressive for my inexperience. I came back to the Synapse for numerous reasons. It is the most natural fit, before any adjustments, it is very comfortable but fast. Sleek looking! It has a triple chain ring, 105 components. The 105 shifting is easy as can be while, the others had sram which are illogical to operate. It has bottom bracked called the BB30, the crank is located inside the frame for more power transfering directly to the road. As I thought about it, I came back to this point-my husband had a Synapse that he has put 8000 miles on. It still looks and rides like new! Even the LBS guys are impressed with it. He has gone on numerous long rides. Does a ride called GOBA in June that is a week long ride of about 350+ miles and several other rides each summer that range from 50 to 75 miles. He usually cruises at about 20mph. Since May 10th, I have logged 302 miles on my Synapse. I am an old lady and am still amazed that I have been able to do this quite comfortably, and often cruising @ 14mph! I am sure I could easily go faster, but I am too timid on these skinny tires still. Good luck with your decision...hope you are as happy with yours as I am with mine.