Thanks for the feedback.

I doubt I'd be able to ride either of them ahead, as I don't think the LBS would order them unless I paid at least a non-refundable deposit (which I understand), especially since they would be a size not likely to move very easily.

Especially after riding the 10-speed a bit I am appreciating having more gears, so I get get the "right" one. I realize that the 105 only has one more cog, but that could make the spread more even. For instance, on my Venture, 1-2 and 2-3, as well as 6-7 and 7-8 feel like a big jump (where sometimes you have to choose between spinning out or working harder than you'd like to keep the RPM up), whereas the middle gears are a nice gradient. I don't know what the actual tooth numbers are for either one, but I suppose I could try and find/figure it out.

I don't know for sure what size would fit me well. My current Raleigh is an "XL", and IIRC the old Ross is a 24". But my understanding is that basic frame dimensions don't tell the whole story, and that some "larger" frames can feel similar to ones labeled as "smaller". For instance, if I understand correctly, both the Ross and Venture I have measure the same, but the Ross feels much bigger, and more like it's the right size. I don't know the best way to go about trying to get one fitted. I probably need to go to the shop in person and see what advice they have. I was just hoping to get some general thoughts before doing so (which I got, so thanks!).