Thanks for all the advice. I got to ride some more pilots this weekend. I rode the pilot 1 and the 5. I only took short test rides but did go over sidewalk cracks etc and I could not tell the difference from the carbon and alluminum frames. Maybe because I'm a beginner and the 5 (carbon didn't fit me quite as well it had bigger handle bars. It did feel better in the drop position or more roomy but again I'm not sure how it is supposed to feel. Are your knees supposed to come up quite a bit? I am anxious to try the Giants again and hopefully a carbon too. I probably will look at the specialized bikes too. The Giants seem to be a good value? I am already hooked just on my test rides and can't wait for our bike shops around here to get more in. Also any recommendations on bike shorts and shoes?

Thanks, Wisconsin