Trek Madone 4.5 WSD vs Specialized Amira Expert

[Amira]

and I would bet that's because you own one (professional photographer, Nikon d700)

As for the bike - I'd mirror everyone else here - go for the one with the best fit and feel.

Ha, isn't that usually how it works? Long-time serious amateur (like from back in film developing and printing days). Still shooting my 5D (but eyeing the 5DIII at this point). Have my brother's old film Nikon, though. Not usually the one getting in the middle of the camera wars. Like bikes....both are good options, but it comes down to individual choice.

Back to topic, I will say that all things being equal fit and feel wise, I'd take Ultegra over 105 components any day. That's like putting your money on the good glass over the latest body, photographically speaking.

[Catikin12]

First- I meant to say that the Trek would be $1500, NOT $1200.
I had a VERY long, tiresome, and annoying road to get my bike, but I just got it a couple of hours ago and I am IN LOVE!!! Who knew I was capable of such love for an in-adamant object?!?
I had so many issues with finding a bike that fit me. I actually typed out this (incredibly) long post that I was initially going to post, but when I was just about done with it, I realized what bike I needed (yes, needed!) to get. But just out of curiosity, I still started a thread just to see what everyone else thought. Yes, I am a Type "D" person. I analyze and over-analize and then re-analyze like CRAZY!!!
And because I maybe should have started this post with which bike I got, here it is: I got a BEAUTIFUL Specialized Amira Expert. And I love her.

[Koronin]

I actually looked at both the Amira and the Madone and ended up getting a Felt F-5.

I also prefer Canon, but I've had Canon cameras for years. I had a Canon Rebel 35mm film camera when I was in college and upgraded to a Canon digital. Actually have both a Canon digital Rebel and a Canon D. (Still have the film camera as well). The film camera went to many NASCAR races and hockey games.

[TigerMom]

First- I meant to say that the Trek would be $1500, NOT $1200.
I had a VERY long, tiresome, and annoying road to get my bike, but I just got it a couple of hours ago and I am IN LOVE!!! Who knew I was capable of such love for an in-adamant object?!?
I had so many issues with finding a bike that fit me. I actually typed out this (incredibly) long post that I was initially going to post, but when I was just about done with it, I realized what bike I needed (yes, needed!) to get. But just out of curiosity, I still started a thread just to see what everyone else thought. Yes, I am a Type "D" person. I analyze and over-analize and then re-analyze like CRAZY!!!
And because I maybe should have started this post with which bike I got, here it is: I got a BEAUTIFUL Specialized Amira Expert. And I love her.

As a fellow Amira owner, you made an excellent decision, especially since the Trek was $1500 rather than $1200.

I am very happy that you are "IN LOVE"!
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2012 Specialized Amira Elite, upgraded carbon handle bars, Jett saddle 143mm switched to 145mm 2012 Selle Italia Max SLR Gel Flow saddle
2010 Santa Cruz Juliana with R kit and Crampon pedals
2011 Specialized Ariel Sport,suspension post,Serfas Rx Women's Microfiber saddle (sold)

[Owlie]

I'm considering an Amira. Excellent choice--you love it.

[gocard]

I really liked the Amira - you got a nice deal on a great bike and components! Pictures when you are able to take some, please!

[Catikin12]

Thanks, "TigerMom"!
Owlie, you should totally get one!!!
Gocard- yes! I think I did get a good deal... especially with the few extras that I got with it as well And yes, I can't wait to take some pics of my new bestie and post them- lol!
It was really the only bike that I felt "good" on in my massacre of trying SOOOO many various bikes at several different bike shops.
Honestly, it was a horrible experience. If I wasn't a determined person, I would have given up getting a nice road bike after the first... or second... or even third or fourth! But at the end of it all, I learned that there are several not so common factors about myself that effect the type of bike I need, and I have a bike that I am so incredibly happy with. So the end result is wonderful and that's what I'm going to focus on. But I do still need to find a decent (yes, I will settle for decent, not great at this point!) LBS that I can take my future business/needs to.

[Catikin12]

Here she is: