Originally Posted by
rangerdavid
if you think the CAAD you test rode was HUGE, maybe it was a bad fit or just the wrong size bike. Nevertheless, you really should get the bike that you like best, that feels the best, fits the best (you body and your pocket book), and that you will enjoy riding the most. That's what is really important.
Very true, Cannondale seems to run larger than Specialized. I was a perfect fit in a 52cm on the Specialized Allez. I am currently riding a 50cm CAAD9 5. I am very happy with my CAAD9 over the Allez. It's stiffer, more comfortable, and handles much better. But that's just me. Only you will know what bike is best for you. You do owe it to yourself to try out the Synapse or Roubaix though.
Remember, your first bike is a lot like your first girlfriend... you're just using her to find out what you really want in the next one.