How much difference does 6mm make?

[VW Beetle]

that's the price of the frame. The components are extra and can tack on quite a bit to the final price tag (the Dama Race w/ Dura Ace is $3700).

Oh my... Mighty fine looking bike, though.

[Surlygirl]

Another Orbea fan waving hands. I have the purple 05 Dama Race and I love it too. I'm only 5'0 tall and have the 49. Its the best fitting bike I've ever ridden. I have mine set up with Ultegra 10speed and a triple. My knees demand that little granny to get me up the hills around here.
I say try one and go with what you love. You can always sell your other bike.

[cyclingnewbie]

Head back to the bike shop and ask for help. I have long legs and all the WSD bikes were too small for me. So I had to find the "normal" bike that was the least too long. Then I shortened the stem, moved the seat forward, etc. and finally have a fit I like. And get narrower bars that fit your shoulders. It sounds like you aren't so far off on fit that you can't get the bike you have to work for you. But, if you are forced to buy a new one for a better fit, what can you do? Life is a struggle and you may just have to force yourself to endure being forced to get new wheels!

[amelia05]

thanks for all the responses!

The $2300 I mentioned was for the Mitis Dama with an Ultegra triple...I'm terrible with hills, and can use all the gears I can get!

I did about 60 miles (two rides--a 20 and a 40) this weekend, and my shoulders didn't feel too bad. I was really mindful of keeping my shoulders down, though, so I think I might actually have a tendency to hunch when I'm not paying attention. I also moved my seat back a bit on Saturday, and while that didn't help my reach, it was a better position for my legs. So I just don't know.

I don't know what my ultimate solution is going to be, but I think for now I'm going to take your advice and give narrower handlebars a shot, and maybe give the 70mm stem a try. I'm also still considering test-riding the Orbea, but since the only dealer in town is about 40 miles away, I've decided to try everything I can on my current ride first at the truly local LBS. If shortening my reach on the current bike makes a significant difference, I'm definitely putting the Orbea on my Christmas list.