Thanks [MENTION=27981]Wanderer[/MENTION]. That helps a lot.

I had not really thought much about the triple vs double. (I was focusing more on the model of the drivetrain components.) [MENTION=29573]dynaryder[/MENTION] also spoke of the cheaper maintenance of the triple in a similar thread. Maintenance aside... is a triple or double better for a novice rider (who will never be using the bike in anything resembling a competition)?

I agree on getting quality. I live by the motto "The bitterness of poor quality is remembered long after the sweetness of low price is forgotten." As well as, as you say, you never go wrong getting better. That's why I'm eying the Elite over the Sport. If there was a good reason to get the comp, I'd do it in a heartbeat. But if I'm not really going to get anything out of it -- or worse, will be getting into something that would be a poor choice for a novice/commuter -- than I wouldn't want to go that route. The lighter frame would be a nice to have; but I don't see it as compelling enough to make the jump, especially if I'd be getting into a drivetrain that would be a poor choice for a novice.