OK - I couldn't wait any longer. I didn't get that cyclocross bike - i couldn't bring myself to invest in a frame that wasn't quite my size.

I abandoned the road bars and embraced the hybrid idea, and got a 2018 Specialized Sirrus Sport, used, barely ridden, $400.

Tektro Hydraulic brakes
18 speed with rear Shimano Sora on Shimano cassette
Alum frame
Carbon fork

Here are the specs:
https://www.northwestcycles.net/7588...e-in-grey.aspx

https://www.specialized.com/us/en/me...225852-154511#

Pretty excited!

Now, how do i work this thing?