Hi guys, I'm 6'4", 240lb. I've been riding a hybrid since the spring 2010 - Rocky Mountain RC 10, with Alivio components. I've put well over 1200 miles on it, including a few metric centuries and I like the bike a lot but... I started riding with a local cycling club and I've noticed that I sometimes have a hard time keeping up, especially on the flat sections. I've decided to get a road bike and that's when, as for many others, my head started spinning. Budget wise I'm looking at $1,000, maybe $1,500 if I can find a good fit at a good price. My main questions is about the components - do I need higher grade components, because I'm bigger and will put more tension/torque on the bike? So far I've ridden on a fairly low grade Alivio and I haven't had one complaint. Do you think Sora or Tiagra will be ok, or should I aim higher? I am aware of the importance of the frame and the proper fit, but many frames come equipped with various components, so I would like to narrow that down first. So far it seems that I'm in a range of: - trek 2.1, or maybe ECM 3.1 (CF) - cannondale caad 8 or 9 - giant defy 3 or 2 - specialized allez elite Any input is welcome. Thanks in advance