Since you were interested in a Specialized, try out the Sirrus. It is a hybrid, but more road-like than many. It comes in several equipment levels, and is available with a compact front crank, upgraded gearsets, and carbon fiber. I just got a Specialized Vita Sport, which is the womens' version. Specialized does their "Body Geometry Fit" -included with their bikes. They latch your bike onto rollers, and fit it to you with calipers, measurements, as you are both sitting stationary on it as well as pedaling. I'll say that my Vita is a fast bike, and comfortable for my bad back. I don't know about fast rides with road bikes, but you'll be able to do the "B" group easily enough on one. My 2 cents and I'll defer to others more experienced as I'm a newbie as well, just returning to cycling after a 30 yr hiatus. BTW, Cannondale Quick is another respected hybrid.