I missed out on all the shopping fun. I started mtn. biking and then rode it on the road a few times but decided a road bike was necessary for the road. So I just went to the LBS and asked for a bike in my price range. The owner suggested a bike and I got on it in the parking lot. It had been sooooo long since I had been on a bike like that that when I went to hit the brakes I was shocked to find that they weren't where I expected them. I luckily quickly realized they were on the drops and was able to stop before running into a parked car. How embarrassing would that have been!!! Now I wish I would have waited and learned more before rushing out and buying a bike. Although I'm still happy with my Specialized Allez. Happy bike hunting!