I'd do some thinking about 2 specs. The first is that bike has Sora shifters with the thumb button. Some people hate them, some don't mind. The main issue is shifting from the drops. Since you test road them you might already have an opinion.

The second is the triple crankset. A lot of entry level bikes come with them and it is a common inquiry on this board as to how to switch them out. But again some people want them, too. It depends how hilly your rides are and what type of rider you are. I only bring it up because swapping it out will cost money and if your looking at Bikes Direct I'm guessing you trying to be frugal.

This bike gets away from both of those and gets you the new 10 speed Tiagra:
http://www.bikesdirect.com/products/...lt2300_xii.htm