I am starting into road riding, with a group of friends. They all have higher end carbon fiber bikes. I was told by the LBS to consider cervelo RS as it is a top ranked plush bike. Another LBS tells me to consider synapse w/105 and not worry about carbon vs aluminum at this stage. I am fit, but not a big rider, used to be 10 years ago.

Can someone help me? Cost is less important, but I dont want to waste money if I wont see a difference.