When I looked at the Specialized Tricrosses, it seemed to me that some of the more-expensive bikes had more aggressive designs. Maybe this is only true for those that are more expensive than the comp?

Does the comp have the same braze-ons that come with the sport?

What about gearing?

I can't say for sure whether the sport or the comp would be better for you. I haven't looked at them for quite a while. You're probably in a better position to evaluate and choose between the two.

Just be sure you enjoy the way it feels -- how it rides.

Also, be aware that not only tire size, but also tire pressure will affect the ride and feel. It would be a good idea to test ride the same bike at several different tire pressures, to get some feel for this.

(Sometimes one bike will feel fast and skittish and harsh, and another bike will feel much smoother and better -- but it is just the tires. The first bike might actually be a better and smoother ride than the second, if ridden with the right tire pressure for you.)

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I agree with one of the posters on the other thread, that a recumbent might be worth considering. You could at least go on some test rides and see what you think. Many people, esp. those with a little extra weight (until they lose it at least), find that some of the recumbents are much more enjoyable to ride, particularly so for long rides, but even on shorter rides as well.

I've ridden a few recumbents, and they can be very enjoyable -- if you enjoy something that thoroughly or that much, it improves the quality of life, and gets you out there and fit without even trying. If you enjoy something enough, 'trying' just ceases to be an issue....