I've read this whole thread, and decided to declare my cult status.
The Bike
I bought a 2010 CAAD9-5 last winter, but have only ridden it since April. It's standard, with all components as they came out of the box, with one exception: The raised stem is a temporary addition. I'm riding RAGBRAI in July, and the raised stem / lowered saddle contribute to a more comfortable ride over long distances. (After July a regular stem goes back and the saddle gets hiked up a 1/2 inch and forward a 1/4 inch.)
I love the bike, particularly the "Handmade In USA" sticker. (I've read the comments about this earlier in the thread, and respect your opinions - but personally, I was happier giving my $$ to American workers. I would have gone for the SRAM option if I'd had the budget, and if the LBS had one in stock. Just my opinion...)
Here's a picture to establish my cult credentials:
It isn't spotlessly clean, and it has a few small nicks, but I liked the comment I read in one of the previous posts: "It's a tool, not a jewel". I keep it looking decent, but am not obsessed with apperarance. I like the bike's racing geometry and am not particularly concerned with the (relatively) uncomfortable aluminum frame.
The Engine
54 year old engine, 5'7"", 167 lbs. I used to race very seriously between 35 and 30 years ago but I don't think I rode more than 50 miles while I was raising a family and working on my career.
I started riding again in April 2011. I think I'm doing okay - I'm maintaining a B+ pace on club rides, and finished a century last weekend at an average road speed of 19.2 mph (with the raised stem). Not brilliant, but since I've only been riding for 2-1/2 months, I feel sure my performance will improve.
THE QUESTION
Other than the stem - what mods would be worth making?
I will ride RAGBRAI with the bike in its current configuration. But after that I'm planning to participate in a lot more club rides, centuries, and so on - and hopefully get to the point where I can feel comfortable doing 20 and 30 mile A pace rides.
Bear in mind - cost
is a consideration. So what I'm looking for is - what would give me the best bang-for-the-buck?
I look forward to your thoughts.