I have a Trek 7200 Hybrid and like it lots... the issues in changing gears I think are more operator error than anything. I bought it at the end of July and have 570 miles on it. I do like to ride bike.

So, now I am considering my next purchase... a road bike. I figure that I can spend the winter shopping around. Yesterday I went to one shop that sold Cannondales and Giants. They have a 05 OCR 2 for approx $1500, carbon frame, etc. It's a year end clearance sort of deal. The salesman explained that the OCR 2 is built for comfort and that the carbon frame will absorb the road vibration, etc....

I have been eyeing the 06 Pilot 2.1. The second bike shop has an 05 Pilot 2.1 for around $1100, it has the toe straps, but not clip ons. That sales person explained that a full carbon frame is so finicky. He said that Giant carbon frames are more likely to crack and really only have a life span of 5 years or so. Trek alumnium frames are super tough. The Pilot has Carbon forks and seat posts... they absorb the road vibration. And, as long as a frame doesn't break due to abuse, Trek will guarantee their products for life.

Now, I haven't ridden any of these bikes. The weather and my attire weren't ideal for testing bikes. I know that will be my test. I have a gut feeling that I may go with a WSD model, in which case, I'll probably wait for the '06 models to come in. I know that both shops think their gear is the best. I also figure that Giant isn't your bottom of the barrel equipment either... So I plan to scour through posts here to see what others think.

Also, do you guys enjoy the Trek S.P.A. bikes? The sales guy raved about them... of course, he would.

I also don't really know how much bike I *need*. If I should check out a model that's a little more affordable... though I know that $1500 is still a moderately priced bike compared to other models. I look at it as an investment. I'll test drive a couple bikes that are less expensive too.