Jamis Hybrid Question
 

I currently just finished my first century bike ride on a 12 year-old schwinn crisscross. I got hooked and want to try another century, but not on my old bike. I am currently looking into purchashing a hybrid bike; road bikes hurt my back! I've narrowed my search down to two bikes: the Jamis Coda Comp and the Sirrus Comp by Specialized. The geometry of each bike is similar, however, the components aren't. Does anyone have any riding experience with either of these bikes? If not, could you tell me if a rear derailleur made of Shimano Deore XT is better than Shimano 105? Your help is appreciated!

Deore XT is a mountian bike derailleur.
105 is a road bike derailleur.
Similar quality but the XT will handle a larger rear cog than the 105.

If road bikes hurt your back it's time to do some stretching and get your back into shape. ;)

The Jamis Coda is really nice... I test-rode it before buying my Giant Cypress.... I should have bought the Coda <sigh>...

Coda - steel
Sirrus - aluminium

I like steel. I find it a softer, more comfortable ride.

Also, for back problems, it's time to strengthen your abs.