As Sandy said, I have the same bike. I love riding the Veloche. So fast and smooth. It was an adjustment, going from the "geometry" of my Marin Larkspur to that of the Veloche. I was fitted to the bike when I got it, because I, too, felt like the cat in your avatar (which I love!). I went in to check the fit after putting about 200 mi on it, but they were really busy. I'll go back some morning when it's quiet and have them check me and tweak it. I did get a new saddle; the Terry CrMo was leaving my girly bits numb.

The shifting is a breeze. I had to get used to holding the handlebars and using the brakes differently. I don't like being so bent over, but have adjusted, and so far I can see the road just fine. I don't ride in the drops, because I need to keep my head up and watch the traffic.

I'll bet the new fit makes a big difference, and if not, well, you've got a lot of great advice here!