Thanks for the reply Deb.

I went off to look at the Kentfield today - the LBS was closed as they don't open on Wednesdays. Which reminded me of all the things that irritate me about that LBS. I looked in the other bike store in town, nothing exciting there, and this afternoon I went over to the LBS that my mountain bike came from, and also the store that carries Pashleys. Pashleys are definitely out, the store only carries the biggest heaviest most expensive one at the moment. Globes are out too, I want more gears.

The other LBS was very helpful, and I'm going to hold off on the Kentfield and wait for some more 2012 stock to come in at the helpful shop. I just don't fancy going through the whole "can you get this for me to try in the next size down even though I know that the 2012 stock is coming in and no I don't like the colour of the new one" with a LBS that is generally less than enthusiastic about doing business with me.

Anyway, the Specialised Vita looks like a real possibility, even though I'm not wild about the colour (white). Giant may have something suitable too, though I don't think they have launched the new stock in the UK yet.

Deb, I do love the Pashleys, but it's not sensible to buy a bike that can't do hills. I have a secret yen to go a bit faster too, and I don't need major off-road functionality. There is always the option of just banking the cash and waiting for something to turn up.

Thanks again for the replies, much appreciated!