badger, that was exactly my thought process. I could have afforded any bike, but the 7.5 seemed to be at the point of diminishing returns. If I was the type to put a huge amount of miles on it, I would have went way better. I am more like the type that will put a few hundred miles, now that it is new and exciting, then taper off to non-use for a half year or so. Then I will remember I have it, and use it for a few rides, then forget again.....and so on....and so on......