So I ride a little already and my GF use to ride and did a couple races when she was younger. But the question is I am looking for a decent bike that she could do a couple 150 mile or local race/rides on and feel comfortable with. I already ride a lot however I am a fixed gear primarily, but now having to start over again.

Obviously the LBS is a good place to look around however I also like to read reviews and hear from the masses on the pluses and minuses of different entry/mid range road bikes. The top side of the budget is around 1500$. The other issue is that I would like to help her be informed when we go to the LBS, but depending on what companies we look at will depend on which place we go or if we have to travel so she can get fitted and test ride.

I would like any info but please limit the B.S. telling me to use search or what ever I already have and not really found a viable resource. Thanks again for any help.