Went to the LBS of my choosing ( played deciding factor in my choice ) bit the bullet and put a down payment on the Felt Z85.
This is my first road bike and I cant wait to hit the road with it. ( prob couple of weeks )
My other choices were the Giant Defy 1 (not real fond of the color scheme), Bianchi Via Narone 7 (again color scheme not my style), Trek 1.5 (not as well equipped and more expensive), and the Cannondale Synapse 5 alloy (Came a very close second but competing LBS did not have the aluminum version in stock and was really pushing the pricier carbon to the point of almost badmouthing the alloy version).
Anyway, thanks to all who contributed their help. I can say that the advice to go with the 105 group from those on here upselled me, so the owner of my new LBS owes you to. I'm sure the check is in the mail🙂.
Congratulations on your purchase and your new found best bicycling friend, your LBS. I would have chosen the Bianchi, but that is just me.Felt, Giant, Trek, and Cannondale are just as good quality-wise. If I don't receive my check in a week, I'll let you know and you can send it to me and have the owner of your LBS reimburse you.
