Hey everyone, brand new to this forum, and starting off wtih an oppinion question for everyone.
So I'm not new to cycling in general, I've been mountain biking for years. Now, growing slightly out of my self destructive days, I want to get back into cycling. I also want to get back into shape, but that's a whole nother story.
So, to the point. I've become entirely overwhelmed by the road bike industry. I'm looking for a moderate entry level bike, that can also be used for small local type races. I've been looking into just about anything and everyone I can find. So the main purpose here is to ask everyone's oppinion on what is best, and if I'm completely off my gord.
I've been looking into frames from Bianchi, Pinarello, Colnago, Litespeed, Kestrel and others of the like. Am I getting carried away? Or am I on the right track.
Also, groupos. I've always known and respected Campagnalo, but have heard that Shimano's upper end groups are just as good.
What about Rims? Mavic, Campy, Spinergy?
To many choices. So I post this question to everyone. For an mid entry level type bike, for the occasional local race, what should I build? Or have I gone overboard, and should just go to the local bike shop, and pick up the prepacked bike?

Thanks for feedback. Since its beyond cold out, with snow on the ground, I'm hopeing to have my mind made up by spring so I can pick up my new toy and have some fun.