I'm in the market for a high end hybrid or flat bar road bike. I came up with four possibilities from local LBSs scattered around town. I have to admitt that my head is spinning a little over the research/choices. I will list them (with differences) and appreciate any input or experience.

Marin faifax, $600, 7005 triple butted frame, carbon fork, 24 speed, integrated shifters, Sora r/d.

Specialized Sirrus or sport, $550/$660, Sora/Tiagra r/d.

Raleigh C700 (05), $520, Carbon fork, 105 r/d, 27 speed, tektro/shimano levers/brakes, Shimano M505 clipless peddles.

Jamis Coda Sort, $600, steel frame, deore r/d, 24 speed.

It seems the C700 is a good buy but I am not familiar with that manufacturer. Thanks again for your input.

Give those 4 choices, I would choose the Coda Sport. It's a steel frame with more traditional geometry, it can take fenders and racks if you decide to commute or tour, it's geared with a better low range, and Jamis has a good reputation. Raleigh is a well established and respected manufacturer as well.

I've ridden the Coda Sport and have a Coda Elite. I really love my elite, one of the favorite bikes I've ever owned. The handling is so on target for my tastes and the steel ride is so comfortable. When I took the Coda Sport out for a test drive from Performance, I was floored by how much better it rode compared with the two others I test drove at other shops. I've never ridden the other bikes on your list, so I can't compare them with the Jamis, but I think the Coda Sport is a pretty sensational bike.

I love my Jamis Coda Comp! Nice steel frame, good ride, good components.

Do check on rack and fender capability. A lot of flat bar road bike have "issues" with them due to poor design. The following have been raised in these forums with various models:
Missing fork eyelets.
Missing rear seatstays top eyelets.
Seatstay bridge lacking a bolt hole for rear fenders.
Limitted frame clearance for med tyres+fenders.
When everything is right, this style of bike is quite effective and useful.

I like my Specialized Sirrus (entry-level model)

One more thumbs up for Jamis here.

i was just in the middle of a similar decision. i rode most of what you listed and would go with the jamis. i actually ended up with a 2005 Devinci Amsterdam - Devinci is offering at least 15% off their 2005 models. if you can find a LBS that carries Devinci you should give it a look. i've ridden mine 300 miles in the last month and love it for what it is. entire bike is made in canada, and has better components than the 4 you listed. i paid US$659 and my LBS ordered it from the manu - which means that should be the price at all bike shops. good luck.

Unfortunately, there isn't a dealer nearby. Somebody told me they thought raleigh was sliping a little. Just an aside, I know size and fit are important so, I input my measurments into the progam. When I got the results, TT, seat tube, head tube angle ect, none of the bikes I listed were that size. Some had some of the measurments some had none. I am 5'9" with a 31 inseam. When I talked to the LBS's they said either the 17.5 or the 19. It seems kind of complicated for only two possibilites (unless you go custom). Am I missing something?

What about the Giant FCR? It has an aluminum frame, composite rear stays, composite fork & seatpost, clipless pedals & aero wheels. I think it lists for > $1K, however.

I think C'dale's top flat bar is pushing $1,500

I have a Sirrus that I have been very happy with. MY guess is that it is lighter than the steel framed bikes by a significant amount yet it has excellent ride qualities.

Ask the LBS for free or cheap fenders, becuase it's winter afterall--- let that be your guide.