I agree with SadieKate. I myself over the past 4 years went from a hybrid to the Specialized Sirrus which is a roadbike with straight handlebars to my my Specialized Dolce Comp. Each upgrade made me a little faster, but more so, it made for a more enjoyable ride.

I will add that the drop handle bars on the Dolce is so much more comfortable that the straight of the Sirrus because you change your hand position and by holding on to the hoods, I am putting less stress on my shoulders, but this is just my opinion of the difference the two.

~ JoAnn