i went to the LBS today and tried some stuff out. I really don't like the feel of an aluminum bike when compared to a carbon and now that I know that I want a carbon, I'll have to up my budget unfortunately. anyways, i tried some treks and their fit just didn't feel as good as a specialized did, and those were the only 2 brands they had. of the specialized, they got me on a 08 specialized tarmac elite and it went for 1699 and was wondering if that's a good deal or not. Ideally I wanted to spend a little less, but if this is one of those buy once and you're good for a while kind of purchases, then I'd be ok with dishing out a little more at the beginning. I also rode on a specialized roubaix base model for 1799 and they felt similar, but don't know how to differentiate.

anyways, given these choices, what would you do? would you recommend another model given that I really want a carbon frame now? Thanks!