I have had a 2009 model since new, put a couple thousand miles on it. It was my first road bike in 20 years, and I still am really happy with it.

It rides well, has a really comfortable (for me) geometry, is stiff enough without being uncomfortable, and is well-constructed. The components respond crisply, and it all stays in pretty good tune without a lot of work. It is still in really good nick.

The 2011 version has a few different components, but still looks like good value. You will be happy with the 105 gruppo - it is noticeably better than Sora/Tiagra, and compatible with a lot of the Ultegra (and Dura-Ace?) if (when) you eventually want to upgrade parts at a time.

If it feels comfortable to ride, you would be hard-pressed to do better for the price.