Need help on potential road bike purchase

[Owlie]

Thanks for the advice everyone. Just what I was looking for. I will definitely be looking for a longer test ride now. The bike shop knows us well, so I'm hoping it will not be an issue.

I really could not explain why the Amira felt better, but it did. But I think that I would feel better about my decision if I could give it a little longer of a ride.

I could also consider that upgrade on my current bike. Might have those parts in my garage.

You know, sometimes it just clicks. I tried Cannondale's version of the Ruby (carbon women's Synapse) and the aluminum version (CAAD10) of the women's SuperSix (the equivalent of the Amira); the CAAD10 and the SuperSix have the same geometry. The Synapse felt horrible to me. Couldn't get comfortable. It felt harsh. The CAAD10, once I got situated, felt far better. Like it was my bike.

I didn't have that with the Ruby (the Ruby rode nicely, but I felt a bit squished) or the Amira (a bit too stretched out, but it rode well).

IMO, upgrading the Vita to road parts probably isn't worth it. By the time you've paid for new bars, shifters, etc and all the labor that goes into it, you're well on your way to a new bike. Add to that that with what you're looking at, you'll be getting a carbon frame, and, well... I think it's only worth it to upgrade parts if you have a frame that suits your needs and that you are significantly emotionally attached to.

Having 2 bikes is OK. You have one for when your primary bike is in the shop!