So here is my Christmas present, in all of its "Handmade in the USA" glory. The upgrade from my entry level Fuji to the R1000 is definately well worth it. I have to say that I honestly never knew what I was missing until I jumped aboard my new Cannondale this morning. I've heard other cyclists talk about how smooth their bikes are, or how stiff their bikes feel, but I never knew what they were talking about until now. I can now tell you that I completely understand the concept of an ultralight, superstiff, and nimbly responsive bicycle frame. My only regret is that I was not able to put my new toy through its paces this morning due to the bronchitis induced asthma. Tomorrow is another day, however.