In March 2005, my coach helped me pick out my first bike. He wanted Roger at Bob's Bikes to fit me, so that's where I went. I was thinking maybe $1000 but my eyes got big and wanted more when I saw how much a bike costs. So I went with the Specialized Dolce Comp for $1900. It is a women's specific frame and Specialized has done a lot of research to make women's bikes. The frame size is 53.5 cm. I think the bike weighed in around 19.5 lbs. It has an aluminum frame with carbon fork and seat post and Shimano Ultegra components.

After riding it for a few months, I am sad that my bike doesn't weigh 15 lbs like other people's bikes. But I don't want to spend five or six grand on a bike, so I'm happy with my choice, although I think that the aesthetics of the design need improvement. I don't want a "fluffy" looking bike just because I am female.

At the time of purchase we switched out the triple crankset for a 54/30 FSA double. Later this summer I changed out the 12-25 cassette for an 11-23. This made my gears fatter and forced me to strengthen my legs when climbing.

I'm thinking about a new set of wheels or lighter seat for my next upgrade. Also, I borrowed my coach's aerobars and need to buy my own.