JG - congrats on the new bike! Although I eventually bought a Specialized Sirrus Limited, I really liked the Treks - they are nicely put together with good components at each price point.

Like you, I chose a hybrid because of back problems, in my case cervical arthritis that shouts at me if I stretch my neck too far. I'm very comfortable on the hybrid, but I know that I am giving up some efficiency compared to a road bike. But I've only been riding for a couple of months after a 25 year layoff, so I think it's primarily the engine that's the limiting factor at this point. Perhaps a road bike is in my future once I shed a few more pounds and get back into the groove of biking again. On the other hand, I really like the recreational feel of the flat handlebar and it helps remind me that I am not Ricky Racer anymore.....