$5000

Unless things have changed over the years, the 2300 is one of the whippiest and flexxy frames out there .... I'd definitely stay away from them ...........

Rudy is giving you some good points. Those coupled with mine, and a bunch of test rides should help you find what you want.

I don't suppose you are planning to buy each of us a $5,000 bike? If so, I will take a Litespeed Tuscany (size 51cm) with full Dura-Ace 10-speed which can be had for $4865.00 at Colorado Cyclist. I estimate shipping at $30 leaving about $100 for a set of Look A-3.1 pedals. Contact me for a shipping address.

The Litespeed Tuscany is a nice bike...but I would want something a little bit stiffer at the BB.

All bikes for that kind of money will be nice.

It comes down to what you see in the shop and like the look of! Then jump on those bikes and take a few for a ride. You can get a good idea pretty much straight away which ones are great or awful.

Remember you will spending a significant amount of time aboard your new steed and as such you must love it!

I think your swaying towards carbon is probably a good idea. It is a superior material to alloys (that includes steel/alu/ti) and has had the development time to become a market leader. it is produced by all major manufacturers and the old flexy days are distant memories.

The most important part of the bike to consider is the wheels. They play the most important part in the characteristics of the bike, will it feel stiff or light? Think about the terrain and velocity of your racing and then decide. Mavic Cosmos are bargain training wheels to consider.

Well, I got the TREK 5500 and I got a 2003 model at 33% off. (Japan prices)

The money I saved will be spent on a bike for my wife....

[IMG]mcentyre.comTREK5500.jpgOpen ↗[/IMG]

GRATS JAPANic!!

Beautiful bike and I hope it gives you miles and miles of pleasure!
Sounds like you got a good deal.

C-