Sorry for the second post, but I just got an email from the LBS that I wanted some opinions on.

The stock '05 R700 comes with an Ultegra RD and the Shimano WH-R550 wheelset with a total price of $1838.85 CDN (w/o pedals). I asked them about swapping some stuff out to lower the price and they can put a 105 RD and Shimano WH-R500 wheels on to lower the price to $1632 CDN total.

Worth the downgrade? Technically, I could afford the price of the stock layout, but will it make a huge difference going between the two set ups? I prefered the CAAD7 frame of the R700 to the CAAD5 on the R500 after riding both back to back. I don't plan on racing extensively; I just wanted a quality road bike for club rides and solos that will last me for a while. Will mostly be on smooth roads along the Rideau Canal and Gatineau Park.