I'm very close to buying a new road bike, and there are a few options I'm considering. A 2011 Giant TCR Advanced 2 with full 105 (5700), a 2010 Kestrel RT800 with full 105 (5600), a Specialized Tarmac (2009 frame, I believe) with Ultegra 6600, or a Jamis Xenith Comp or Race (depending on the shops willingness to negotiate on price). My budget is about $2k including pedals and water bottle cages. I know that I can get the Giant TCR Advanced 2, the Kestrel RT800, the Specialized Tarmac or the Jamis Xenith Comp within that budget, and possibly get the Xenith Race. I am leaning towards the Giant, because of any of the bikes I've test rode, it was the most comfortable (Although I didn't test that specific model, I did try out a 2008 Giant TCR C3, which is essentially the same frame). I've also taken the 2011 Xenith Comp out for a long test ride (an hour) and I was pretty happy with it, except for it's brakes (tektro, they didn't stop well) and it's crankset (FSA Gossamer, I believe).

What does the BF brain trust think?

Brad