Help Me Pick Out My Mount Mitchell Dream Bike
I am planning/training for this years MM ride. It is 103 miles and 11000 ft of climbing. I've never owned an actual "Road" bike but do have a 1984 Trek touring bike that I use for training/commuting. I'm 5'-10" and weigh 214.6. My goal is to be 175 before the ride which is May 16th. As an award for my reaching that goal and as a motovator I will purchase a new bike if/when I reach my weight goal to make the ride more doable.
I'm not sayin money is no object but I do want the most bang for my buck and get a bike that is a good hill climber. My bike shop guy is recommending a Trek 201 up to the Madone 4.5 and says I don't need and will still be too heavy for CF. Also says Alluminum is my friend. I was thinking light would be my friend for this ride.
Recommendations will be appreciated.