Getting the cockpit right is certainly important. But isn't that just preference? I certainly tried playing with the Syntace bars. Do you have a preferred way of dialing it in besides plumming the knees, getting the seat tilt right, etc.? I want to be upright if touring and in racing position if going to work into a headwind.

Also of concern on that bike was the fact that I always felt like it was going to break in half. The hinge creaks on the frame and the stem hinge creaks as well. I don't pull, and if I do have to stand, I only use my cleats, trying not to lean on the stem.

The hinge was checked by two separate LBS mechanics. One thought it needed grease and the other thought that it would just wear in. Neither thought it would break. I definitely don't believe in lubricating two pieces of metal that aren't supposed to move against one another. But I have no idea how sturdy the hinges are.