tall guy! guessing you know your size. gotta agree with the other guys on the STI univega, though i like Cannondales (can't agree with an LX rear derailler, which is a bit too bulky for a roadie on older models). Down tubes are too much work and you'll wind up never shifting, and in that case may as well go single speed. the Campy set always sounds nice but that bike just isn't very.... sexy? but if you're looking for something to start with that's new and smooth and quite affordable I'd take a look around the Fuji Newest (model) line. They are VERY entry level but offer alot of potential but are fine starter bikes as long as races aren't in your sites. Note: the 2010 models have down tubers, I think. check perfco to see if they have any 2009 models in your size.