Originally Posted by willtsmith_nwi
When you're buying a new bicycle, the difference of $20 is barely worth a squat. If you want to get a bargain, try to haggle the guy down to $400. The other thing you might offer is for him to put X.7 level shifting on the bike 2005 and keep it the same price.
I would prefer SRAM shifting over Shimano. Both shifter sets at that level are just marginally better than junk. But with the SRAM stuff you have 1:1 actuation ratio. When the shifter breaks on the Alivio stuff, not only will you have to replace the derailleur to get 1:1 actuation, you'll also have to buy levers since the Alivio systems are integrated.
Try to find another Specialized dealer (on the way home if need be) and negotiate a price. Also, make sure the trails in your area are open before you go out. In the midwest, you'll find nothing but mud. I know it's hard to wait, but if you go out to early you'll really have a lousy experience AND you'll damage the trails AND you'll have to wash your bike.
Everything you're saying is true. The hope is that I get a bike but only if I find something I like and it doesn't rain. Unfortunately it's supposed to so maybe it's not worth getting. The thing that sucks is that I have no way of getting one until at least May. Like you said, it's hard to wait. It's terrible that I don't even have the bike yet and I already want to ride so much.