Hey great story. Even though your new bike is entry level, it is a quantum leap forward from what you were riding. It is a great bike at its price point and the best bike in the world if you get it free. I hope you enjoy many miles on it. I know how you feel about STI shifting. I bought my first new road bike in 26 years last February and I fell in love with it on my very first ride. Keep on pedalin'
Brian
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“A good teacher protects his pupils from his own influence. ”
― Bruce Lee