Wow...

you set yourself up for a lot of hits in this forum... i did not know that Trek's slope forward, as far as I know the classic geometry is pretty much perpendicular to the horizon, while compacts actually slope backwards, providing for a much shorte seat tube... check out some websites like http://www.bikewebsite.com/index.htm or Sheldon's brown web site.

Also, just the look of the bike is a bad reason for buying it, unless you are going to like looking at it on the wall. Granted aesthetics are a must, but the most important thing as you will probably see around this forum is the comfort. Get on a bunch of bikes and test ride them. Most stores allow that... They also have lots of good advise. Yes, get out there, read up on it, and good luck... Treks are good bikes, but not for the reason you brought up.