I will soon be buying my first geared road bike (or sorta road-bikey bike). I'm looking at a 2009 ($750 + s&h) and 2011 ($1100 flat @ LBS) Volpe.

2011:

2009:


I'm thinking that the only mild hilliness of my commute would make the more narrowly spaced Tiagra RD a better choice than the Deore on the 2009. I might also down the road switch out the crank to go 2x9 or 1x9 for less q-factor.



I honestly don't know how to gauge how much range and narrowness I need as I primarily ride a singlespeed. At 71 inches, it is little tough to get moving when I hit a street full of stop signs, and I don't find myself spinning out unless it's flat for a very long period or downhill.

2011 has front rack braze-ons, 2009 doesn't. 2009 also only comes in 61 cm. I already ride a different bike that size, but it's almost big, and 59cm might fit better, I don't know for sure. Is the difference of ~$300-$350 (depending on shipping) worth front braze-ons, a slightly more attractive cream color, getting to have a LBS check whether 59cm or 61cm is better, and support for the brick and mortar store? WIll I like the closer gearing better?

A deore derailleur can handle a 12-25 cassette. A Tiagra cannot handle an 11-32 cassette. For my money, more options are more better, I'd go with the 2009. Its the same frame, so you really making a decision on cost and components. I vote for the 2009, but do what you think is best.

Edit: after re-reading your post, go for 2009 only if you will fit the 61. A new front fork with braze-ons is less than 350 also, plus it doesn't sound like you really care about that. Either way, the Volpe is a very good all-around bike.

A bike that fits is worth much more than a bike that doesn't. I'd visit the LBS and if the 61 isn't clearly a better fit, then I wouldn't even consider the 2009. Support from an LBS is also definitely worth something.

I wouldn't obsess too much about the gearing. A Deore rear derailleur and cassette is relatively cheap if you decide later that you'd rather have the wide gearing. The triple crankset gives you pretty wide gearing anyway.