All good advice. But no one addressed the number of gearing options. I have an old 10 speed that covers from 52:11 to 33:31. That's a wider range most I've seen. I also have a 21 speed mtb (which doesn't have the high end of the road bike). I rented 24 speed Speciallized on a business trip. Great ride BTW. OK I'd like at least 10 options a few more and you don't get as an abrupt change - oh hum. More than 21 seemed too many. With the 5 sprockets in the rear they can be change one at a time to customize your gear set the larger numbers come in built together clusters or casets (sp?).

So I guess 10 to 18 is plenty. More than 21 and the change and gears get thin and I worry about danty little me (~240#) breaking things.

I like a wide range so I have very low for up hills and very high for getting a good run down hill to haves lots of speed for the next up hill.

I like the detent shifters on levers by the break handles better than the twist the hand grip kind.

Try lots of bikes then get the one you like best from the friendlest bike shop.

Joe