Thanks for the input guys.

The area might be more hilly than I realize. I've only driven it, not actually cycled.

That said, the road is pretty much 100% straight. there are two turns, both broad.

With this in mind, I think they would pass me like a tractor. There isn't much traffic, especially in the early morning and past 6pm when i would be on the roads.

My trip is to university, so I will have an 10 hour day to rest up before the return trip.
This is the bike I'm looking at:
http://www.specialized.com/us/en/bc/...01&scname=Road

Bikes direct seems a tonne cheaper though. Are they a reputable dealer? I can get it to Canada it seems with a forwarding service.

Thanks for all your help