So I returned from a nice fall ride, fresh snow on the ground and found myself thinking a lot about this thread. I had a sour feel that reduced my enjoyment but for me time on the saddle is better than time on a psychiatrists couch.To jpgroth I would like to offer my apologies. I am glad you are excited about riding and your new bike and I do hope you get many years of enjoyment from it. I reread the post carefully and looked at my original reply..." a more ride worthy specimen"....what the hell was I thinking. To all the others who responded I understand what you are saying and your comments were quite appropriate. It's a funny thing, my skills in talking to people are pretty good. The internet though seems to let some part of me escape that never would with direct one to one communication.
I think I will take this thread, the statements made and use them as an opportunity to leave out any comment unless it is positive, encouraging or helpful. Cheers to all.