Originally Posted by goenrdoug

The Scott's a nice bike. That's a good price. You can't go wrong starting out with a good relationship with the local shop -- since you'll be back for all sorts of gear (tools, pedals, shoes, tires, etc. etc.) in the future.

On the other hand, for $550 you could get a damned nice bike:
and be in the game...

Then, later, you can buy exactly what a few thousand miles of riding helps you figure out you really need.

</devils advocate>