I don't have any issues,I don't like having to constantly shift gears. My old commuting route was very hilly;with the 11-34 9spd I would shift 1-2 gears at a time,with the 11-28 10spd it was 3-4. Close ratio cassettes are fine for flat areas,they suck in hilly ones.

You've been saying the use of the XX1 groupo is 'controversial';it's not,you just don't like it. I'm saying there are lots of people who probably will like it. If you don't like it,then just say so,and why. Don't tell someone who's thinking about getting one of these that there are some kind of issues. There aren't,it's just not your personal preference.

you just have to be right don't you? Plenty of people will think it's controversial to put a 1x11 with 11-42 cassette on a road bike. You don't. I do. In the end, we are just stating opinion. Get over it man...

Hoover what bike did you get?

I put a deposit on a 2015 Specialized Sirrus Expert Carbon! They are not yet available, but I will have one as soon as they are. I am still a bit concerned about the microshift shifters; however, by bike shop said they will work with me to replace them if I do not like them. I really liked and wanted the Pro Carbon, but decided against getting one when I realized the cost of replacing the rear cassette. Given the number miles I ride in a year I would have maintenance costs of about $500 every other year. I also considered the Cannondale Quick Carbon 1, but the longer top tube on the Siruss fits me better. Thanks for your help.

Good choice Soon to be Fellow Expert Disc Owner. I was at the Spokane shop that has the 13 Sirrus LTD. They want 1750.00 plus tax. Thats a hard sell considering the components on it just feel cheap compared to the 14 and 15 carbon Sirrus bikes. That brake lever feel is just another notch down, they need to knock it down several hundred more dollars.
I bet you are counting down the days. Here is mine just taken today. I am waiting to see how Giant's new Fastroad Hybrid ride like, I am interested in the cheapest one they offer.

Great looking bike!!! Funny you should say that about the brakes on the 2013 Sirrus Limited. That was my exact thought when I rode it. The Limited has a shorter top tube than on the 2015 Expert. You are right, it should be marked down much more. I can't wait for mine to get here.