Originally Posted by hsuehhwa

I have a high end climbing Evo with climbing wheels, and a <$2k CAAD 12 (105 groupset) with the almost same geometry and fit.
CAAD 12 is ~3-4 lbs heavier.

If you're very lean and already very fit, you will notice a significant difference at steep grades (>10%).
All my descent PRs were made with the CAAD 12.

For riders that are significantly overweight, the benefit of a lightweight carbon frame starts to diminish.