New bike -- what matters?
I am looking for a new bike, and a LBS suggested the Trek Eqinox 5 or Cannondale CAAD9 Optimo 3 -- around $1,500. Are there other brands or models I should look at?
The CAAD9 comes in three models with different dérailleurs -- how do they differ? Are there significant differences in durability, shifting smoothness?
They also offer different wheelsets -- are there noticeable differences in weight or durability among wheelsets?
(I am 67, in good shape, ride about 40 hard training miles a week, have done one triathlon, and am planning to do another).
Larry