Just an update... I took a very different route and got a second-hand XS Litespeed Bella with 650c wheels, all Ultegra except the Dura Ace crankset and cassette. I got it today and it was raining so I only rode to a friend's place but I love it already! Felt so good. Much nicer than the steel bike I've been riding, and much nicer than the Specialized Amira I test rode. It shifts so much nicer than the Rival on one of my other bikes too.

Thanks for all the input. I'll remember it for when I decide I want a carbon bike. I hope that is never