Thank You for the information, it is exactly what was I was looking for. Even though a newbie I ride 100 miles a week. A long ride on the weekend and short 10 mile sprints during the week. While new to the sport, I do know that a road bike is designed more for speed then a mountain bike. 700 tires versus 2.0 tires alone is a big deal. I ride on a combination of roads, bike paths, dirt and gravel during my travels. A road bike would not work for me. I don't want to commit to just roads either. I though more people would feel the same way but I am getting the feeling you must either be a dedicated road bike person or dedicated mountain bike person. I don't want to buy two bikes. Thanks.