I started on a dumpster acquired Peugeot Record Du Monde 10 speed, and graduated to a modest Bianchi Brava with decent components. It's tougher than hell to road bike in Atlanta, and frankly I don't have the requisite 2 hours for a decent workout. I've all but stopped riding in the last couple years in favor of hitting the streets with my feet. I did the GA400 Century race a few years back..what a bastard. Early July, 106 miles (because some asshole messed with the course signage) and ultra hilly. Fun race, but a real ass kicker.