This is a great post, I have enjoyed the CAAD pictures and found it an intelligent source of data.

As I want to buy my GF a CAAD10 - Shimano Ultegra
Cassette Shimano Ultegra 6700 - 12-25 will be changed to 11-28 for better hill climbs and downhills.
Pédalier FSA SL-K Light Carbon BB30 - 34/50

This setup seems quite good for hills and moutain climbs in la Suisse.

http://www.culturevelo.com/IMG/velos...ompact_grn.jpg

BUT... the CARBON SYNAPSE SRAM Apex seems a great all around contender. Anyone ever ridden it vs the CAAD10?

http://www.culturevelo.com/Synapse-Carbon-SRAM-Apex

Cassette Sram Apex - 11-32
Pédalier FSA Gossamer BB30 - 34/50


It is not exactly possible to compare both setups as SRAM has versatility as the widest bandwidth of gears with the SRAM Apex, there are good features like Zero Loss.

We will do a lot of Swiss Alp terrain, always hills so ups and downs. Its her first ever bike.