I'm looking at a carbon bike to reward myself for hitting 180# (a way to go yet) http://www.masibikes.com/bikes/carbo...ione-apex-2012 . I like this one because of the 11-32 cassette on the SRAM Apex, and my favorite LBS sells Masi and Surly. I live where it is pretty hilly, but by the time I hit 180# the lower gear may not be that big a deal, and I may go with the 105 with a 12-28. The reviews I have read give the Shimano a slight edge on overall quality.