I bought a 2010 Trek 2.3 and love it!! Have ridden nearly 5000 miles on it, including a few sprint tri's. This bike climbs well, descends fast, and can keep up with the best of them, aluminum frame and all. I have ridden with groups where some guys are riding $7000 plus carbon frames and my bike does just fine. I absolutely have nothing bad to say about the bike. When you are ready, just upgrade com ponents to Ultegra and a nice set of wheels and lookout! I would MUCH rather have my 2.3 than a Madone 4 series. For the money, it is a fantastic ride. I have not had any problems with mine and would def buy another Trek (However, they came up with some real CRAP paint schemes for 2011, so i guess I won't be getting another this year). BTW, I bought mine with a triple but quickly upgraded to the compact...compact is much better). Good luck!!!!