Originally Posted by GodinSession

I just purchased the Condend SL1 Disc. My LBS sold it to me at 15% off so I was out the door, tax included under $1200.00. It is such an awesome bike. I right away upgraded tires to Maxxis Refuse 28's. Makes the bike ride soooo smooth. I also have a giant Anyroad Comax and the Contend feels much snappier and livelier but it still is slack enough to not put me in a racy position. I suppose if I flipped and slammed the stem I would feel that way but I don't race so wanted something comfortable but faster feeling than my Anyroad which I use on the gravel trails around my area.
The Felt VR30 was also on my list to try out. You can put tires up to 32mm on it. But I test rode the Contend first and LOVED it right away. The VR30 has 'sub compact' gearing which is cool if you plan on riding some really steep stuff, otherwise the gearing is probably a little low for a dedicated road only bike. If you live in the mountains it would be great though.
The tire width in my opinion makes the biggest difference in comfort over the frame material. I would not get a road bike ever again that could not accept at least 28's. You go just as fast and it is so much smoother.