I've put 900 km on my MTB in the past 2 months and have absolutely loved it but I have now decided what I REALLY want is a road bike since I spend MOST of my time on the road with my slicks. As soon as school is out at the end of June, I'm going to start seriously looking for a bike. I have found the information on this site excellent and I have read several threads on fitting bikes etc. I'm definitely going to make sure I find a(n?) LBS that does that well. Does anyone recommend a particular brand of road bike? I am looking in the $1000-1500 (CAN) range and think I'd probably like to buy something a step up from the entry level. I'm willing to pay more if it makes sense to. I am going to keep my MTB so I think I've decided not to go with a hybrid or other "cross" although I considered it for a while. I want to be able to ride faster, do longer road trips in and around the area, and maybe eventually join up with some of the local clubs rides.

I tried a couple of bikes a few weeks ago - a Trek and a Lamond but there seems to be so much out there. Should I be looking for anything specific as far as frame, fork composition, and/or other components?

I also want some clipless pedals, and shoes that I can use on both the MTB and the road bike. I think I'd prefer MTB shoes so I can walk in them. I heard lots of recommendations for the Speedplay Frogs here. Is that the best way to go?

If anyone has any specific recommendations or suggestions, I'd appreciate the advice before I hit the stores.

PS I'm 46, and 5'3" if that has any relevance.

Thanks so much!
barb