On 1/3/2011 10:54 AM, SMS wrote:
On 1/1/2011 11:43 AM, Jean wrote:

snip

So here goes. Assuming equally good fit and tire size/psi - Do any of
these
bikes stand out as more smooth riding? Do any of these bikes stand out as
more comfy for all day long cruising? Does anyone have any idea how the
weights compare for the same size bike?

Clearly you're going to be doing racing if you're purchasing a CF framed
bicycle, so "cruising" is the wrong word. No one buys CF for "cruising."

There's probably a spot between racing and cruising where the CF
comes in to play, especially if you don't like aluminum frames.

I don't race any more but I tend to treat my road bike as workout
equipment. I don't like aluminum frames. My CF
frame was on sale for cheaper than an equivalent steel frame. I started
by road testing an aluminum frame with carbon fork and ended up liking
the full CF better. Last year's model was less than this years steel
and rode better than the aluminum. YMMV.

Generally though I agree with you that you shouldn't spend money on
a hi-tech light frame to go cruising.

Best suggestion is to take your pedals, if you have cleats, around to
the LBS and try out some bikes. That's what I did and I ended up with
a bike that fit me and I spend a lot of time on.