Triathlon - Is this a good bike?

i just signed up for my first triathlon and am looking for a bike.
i plan on trying out a couple of races this summer as well. but before i can do these things i need a bike!

i just received a gift certificate from a local bike store that only sells Trek and Specialized, so my selection is limited.

i bought a Trek WSD mountain bike a couple of years ago and had problems with the derailers. i paid $550 for it and am willing to spend more on the road bike so i dont have to worry about these problems as much.

i am willing to spend around $1200. I have narrowed my search down to the Specialized Dolce Vital Multi-Sport, Trek 1500 WSD, Trek Pilot 2.1 and the Specialized Dolce.

If you have any suggestions they would be greatly appreciated!! i have not found any reviews on the multi-sport. What makes it different? Is the difference really worth it?

I bought my wife an '04 Trek 1500 and she loves it. She didn't get the WSD because the standard model fit her better. I think it's a good choice if it fits you well...that's all that really matters.

By the way, you should be able to get it for less than $1200.

i went to the lbs yesterday and checked out all of the bikes. the 1500 is definitely the best.
the wsd also didnt fit me. thank you for you input!

I think if you're seriously getting into tri's, I wouldn't recommend the Pilot.. It's designed for more comfort, with a more upright position, longer wheelbase, etc. The 1500 is indeed a very nice bike, especially for the price. Looked at one for my wife, but ended up blowing the budget completely on a Kestrel Talon with full Shimano (her other bike is a Giant TCR with full Campy).

Probably the most important addition to your new bike should be a fitting. There is really nothing worse than spending over $1k and still not be comfortable... Also, add a pair of aerobars to you new bike... Now you're ready to fly! :)

If you aren't set on tri-specific bikes check out Felt. I got a 2005 F70 for $969. Full 105, just over 20 pounds, carbon fork and seat stays. I am going to eventually probably add some aero bars for tri's but haven't done it yet.