I'm a reasonably decent recreational rider. I'm not a great climber but enjoy getting to the hills. Typically my local rides are flattish with some short hills. However in the last month I've probably done half a dozen rides with 4K'-5K' climbing in each plus a century with 7.5K' of climbing, all with an old steel frame and a standard crank with a 53/39 and a 12-25 8spd cogset. The climbs rarely were steeper than 8% and mostly 4-6% so nothing really steep.

I do find myself winding out on downhils in a 53-12 so figure it would be worse with a 50-12. I'm not totally against a compact but it seems like there are comprimises like a bigger jump for the front shifter etc. that make me want to stick what I'm comfortable with.

I'm pretty easy on equipment, ride mostly by myself but may change that if I get this bike and want to train for events longer than a century.

This bike seemed like a good deal. It's gotten good reviews. Lists for $2700, on sale for $2100. Full Ultegra and Ksyrium Elites plus I liked the ride.

I have to admit I'm new to anything other than steel and this is a big investment for me so I'm more than a little cautious.

I'm open to suggestions on other bikes in this price range. I've heard good things about Felt but haven't found one locally to test ride.