thanks to those who replied with input about getting a hybrid for city riding and commuting to work.

i purchased a new trek 7200 from turin bikes, downtown denver. i'm 5'8 - started with 17" but they
steered me towards a 15" - which is better fit. rides great and is much much faster and less taxing
than my old MTB. my preference is the straight handlebars which they swapped out. also added a rack
for the back and new heavy duty lock. i moved my lights over, and a few weeks ago i got a handlebar
mount for my garmin GPS. going to use that tomorrow on ride to work and see exactly how much faster
i go. the GPS is aviation based - i use it for flying - but it has major streets and i was thrilled
to find the handlebar mount.

check out the pics - i've had the big handlebar bag on my MTB and love the convenience - but i need
to try some rides without it to see if i can tell any difference (in drag). i also wear a backpack
when going to work - but going to start tying up the straps and strapping it into the rack...

http://www.jamesvandellen.com/pics/trek6.jpg http://www.jamesvandellen.com/pics/trek4.jpg
http://www.jamesvandellen.com/pics/trek3.jpg - my "dashboard"