Talked to my local LBS about upgrading my drivetrain, and decided that it wasn't worth it for my current (rather inexpensive) bike. He mentioned he had a used, custom built womens bike that might fit me. I fell in love at first ride! She's a road bike, 51cm frame, Rodriguez (aparenlty a custom bike maker here in Seattle). She's got a a Shimano 105 triple, 27 speed, drop bars but the stem has been raised for a more upright ride, velocity rims and Michelin Pro race tires. Avatar 143 seat, but that may get changed out after I've ridden for a while. The shifters are different from my other bike - i.e. not the trigger kind, although I don't know what they're called (I'm such a newbie. LOL) so that's going to take some getting used to. She's dark purple, and I think her name is going to be Betty. She's five years old, completely overhauled and tuned, and looks new.

She's so tiny and light compared to my other bike (Schwin hybrid)! I am in love. I get to take her for our first real ride tomorrow morning, then I'm going to find some hills to tackle. Unfortunatley I don't know how to insert a pic.