I purchased a new 2009 Fuji Finest 2.0 last spring (2011) and have used it for 2 seasons. I use it mostly for 10-15 mile rides and have completed two supersprint tris on it. The gears have had shifting issues since I purchased it - they click, rattle, and sometimes shift while I'm peddling. Every time I bring it in for an adjustment, the gears are out of whack again.

I'd like to move to a sprint tri next year, but I've got to go faster on the bike (avg 15-17 mph during supersprint). I'm a pretty in shape person, but I feel like I can't get the bike to go faster - is it the bike or me?

I'd like to ride faster and easier, without spending $1500 on a new bike. I'm petite (5'1") and most bike stores (Chicago) don't have many small frames for me to try out at any time.

- Does it seem like something is wrong with my current bike, i.e. because the gears consistently don't work smoothly? What can I do about it?
- Is the inability to go as fast as I'd like because of me or the bike?
- If I were to upgrade to a new bike, does anyone have any suggestions on a good bike for petite women (under $1500)? And, any suggestions for working with biking stores that cater to men and/or taller women?

Thank you!