Getting a new bike, need some reviews, advice

[imagesinthewind]

Hi,
I'm gonna be 40 this year, 5'3.
I currently ride a giant mtn bike and it's time to upgrade to a cross or hybrid.
I don't want a full road bike as we do ride a few dirt trails.

These are a few things I want in a bike:
straight handlebars
no larger standover than 28.5 inches, I've got a 30 inseam
700c tires, preferably 28 to 32c, cross tires not slicks
Shimano components
Ultergra
105
triple cranks, 30, 42, 52
27 speed
No heavier than 23 pounds
carbon forks

In 2008 my dh (jamis nova) and I are going to ride around Great Lake Erie.
It'll take that long for me to get in shape and be ready for a 700 mile ride.

I've checked out the
Fuji Royale (rode tested)
Specialized Sirrus Comp (seen, size small, not tested yet)

What other bikes are there with the above needs for $1K or near it.

Thanks to all who give advice,
Ginny in Denver

 

[gclark8]

Felt SR81 in a 50cm.

Giant FCR2: http://www.giant-bicycle.com/us/030.000.000/030.000.006.asp?model=11328

You may find 28mm is the widest tyre you can fit in Carbon Forks with V-brakes. I tried a Conti City Contact 32mm (700c) in my Felt, the rear was ok, however, I could not get it past the brake pads in the front.

 

[imagesinthewind]

Felt SR81 in a 50cm.

Giant FCR2: http://www.giant-bicycle.com/us/030.000.000/030.000.006.asp?model=11328

You may find 28mm is the widest tyre you can fit in Carbon Forks with V-brakes. I tried a Conti City Contact 32mm (700c) in my Felt, the rear was ok, however, I could not get it past the brake pads in the front.

That Felt is a VERY pretty bike.
Problem is there are not shops around here that carry that brand.
I will check out the Giant as they have them where the Specialized
was.

Thanks so much!
G

 

[imagesinthewind]

I tested the Specialized Sirrus Comp and riding it was like finding the right guy. It felt perfect from the first pedal. It ran smooth, the seatpost is carbon with a gel insert and it really helped keep the texture of the road off my body. The size is perfect, a small, and had me at just the right stretch. Even the saddle is decent. My LBS upgraded me to a WS saddle.
I got it at a nice $799 price and it's now all mine.

See ya on the bike trails!
Ginny in Denver

Shout out to Westside Cycles on Colfax
Thanks Bret for the great service and help!

 

[BikeBloke]

You may find 28mm is the widest tyre you can fit in Carbon Forks with V-brakes. I tried a Conti City Contact 32mm (700c) in my Felt, the rear was ok, however, I could not get it past the brake pads in the front.

What if you fit the wheel with the tyre deflated, so you can squeeze the tyre past the pads, then inflate the tyre when you mount the axle in the fork?