Nice looking bike. I started this thread because I feel the way you do. I wanted more speed so I got a Cannondale CAAD 8. It was nice, but not as comfortable and no faster on flats or downhill (better on climbs). I hated the dropbars mainly because they hurt my hands. I thought I could have the best of both worlds by installing a flatbar which I did. Still wasn't happy, something was missing. Went back to a hybrid and was much happier. I think it's the longer wheelbase.