I really appreciate the input guys.I'm gonna head to REI tonight and test drive a few bikes and see how they feel.I know there are also several LBS's in my area and maybe I'll check some of those out too,anyone perchance live in the East Bay Area around Concord/Walnut creek got a recomendation for a good LBS?

Thanks again guys....I'll definitely post a pic of what I end up with, and I'm sure I'll be picking your brains on what I should upgrade first ..lol