Hi Everyone!
I am a newbie to these boards and generally new to the sport of cycling. I've always biked but usually just a pleasure ride with the family.

This summer I completed two triathlons on my Fuji hybrid/comfort bike which I purchased in April of '04. This spring, I had some modifications done to my bike...thinner tires, comfy seat, extenders on my handle bars. The triathlons were fun and something I definitely want to keep up, I am registered for a duathalon in the end of September. I think I finished just fine for my first two races ever, I was thrilled with the mere fact of finishing!

2:04 min finish time for my first sprint tri of 1/3mi and swim 13 mi bike and 3 mi run.

2:20 min finish time for my second sprint tri of 1/4 swim, 23 mile bike and 3 mi run.

I know I want a new bike. I really want to improve my times, especially on the bike. On my current bike, I average about 12-14 mph. According the race results on mylast tri (sprint) my average was 15.1 mph.

I have gone to my LBS, the same place I got my bike and they will take it on a trade in. He said I can take the $50 seat off and put the original seat back on but I would keep the new tires and handle bar extenders on it as they would not be of use to me again.

I need to stay in the entry level price range. I have test rode an '07 Fuji Newest 3.0. At my LBS it is $575 and he will give me $125 for my old bike. This price is very attractive and very much in my range. As a busy mom, I really don't have a ton of time to drive all around the Twin Cities testing a bunch of bikes. I also really want to trade this one in and usually trades are only accepted at the shop of original purchase.

I guess I have one main question....will the difference in riding a road bike be very noticeable to me? I am an athletic person, I run and lift weights 4-5 times a week. I swim about 2 times a week. I am the working mom of three young kids as well as a full-time first grade teacher.

I am hoping that training, as well as the new bike will really pick up my time on the bike leg.

Advice?
Thanks,
Kim