I know I said I wasn't interested in speed, but now I'm not sure what I want. I'm not interested in racing, but I would like to increase my speed. It would be nice to put on a few extra miles in the same time frame. I can see getting a steel bike for when I retire (2 years, 2 weeks) and have all day to ride

The LBS guy said I would increase speed just by improving my aerodynamics with a drop bar (I have a straight bar now). My current ride is aluminum w/carbon fork and I like the ride. I guess I do feel the road but it's a nice tight feel, not usually jarring. I want to put slightly wider tires on that bike and make it my all around, errand running transportation, and the new one will be my fitness/training ride.

I hope this makes sense. I worked a midnight shift and I'm a little groggy. Thanks (again and again) for the replies. The information is great.