
Originally Posted by
Muirenn
Frame quality first, group quality second, wheel quality third.

(Some people put wheels second, but they are easier to upgrade than a group, IMO).
Felt makes great bikes. Just make sure whatever bike you get fits.
And the sooner you upgrade the tires, the happier you will be. (Tires, not to be confused with the wheels. Easy to do when reading about it. At least for me). I suggest Continental Grand Prix 4000s. Wish I'd discovered those years ago. Handling is supurb. Makes riding so much better, and turning!
I agree with Muirenn's priority assignment. And I second the recommendation for upgrading the stock tires as soon as possible! The stock tires that most manufacturers put on their bikes are usually low end (somewhat heavy, not all that resilient). I also endorse the Conti GP 4000S tires - they are quite puncture resistant, and very smooth riding.
JEAN
2011 Specialized Ruby Elite - carbon fiber go-fast bike
DiamondBack Expert - steel road bike
Klein Pinnacle - classic no-suspension aluminum MTB