Just to post an update to the forum, I went ahead and bought a used bike to learn on instead of a new one. Thanks, Fred, for that sensible nudge in the right direction. I went to look at a $100 Miyata 110 and went home with a $300 Bianchi Limited (S/N: CS26791). Compared with the Miyata, the Bianchi looked nicer, rode nicer, fit better, was lighter, and had new Michelin Dynamic 700x28 tires/tubes. It's blue, has a "B" on the fork along with an Ishiwata stamp (cro-moly steel). There are stickers for "022", "Piaagio", and "Made in Japan". It's in good condition, no dings, but some small scratches. I think I'll put the Brooks B17 on it instead of the MTB. Once I get my updates on it, I'll post a picture to the C&V forum. It's time to start my next phase of learning.