SRAM

[RhythMick]

http://www.planet-x-bikes.co.uk/i/q/YBCL185675/planet_x_kaffenback_sram_rival_drop_bar_small_bronze

This one isnt quite right, but it's typical of the offers they have on from time to time. May be worth calling them to explain what you're looking for, I'll bet they will be able to help.

 

[Sittingduck]

If you like the Boardmans, I'd consider a lightweight rack with p-clips and some Crud Roadrace guards...

 

[Mike!]

I don't know anything much about cycling people / history...I have heard of Chris Boardman and Lance Armstrong

I don't want a CX bike, looking for something quicker than the Sirrus potentially

Having had a Sirrus and now own a CX it is the quicker bike, all it needs it a tyre change If they would comfortably fit the female form though is another matter....

 

[vickster]

I am 5'10 with 33" inside leg and arms like a monkey ... not a petite female by any stretch Most of my bikes for the last few years have been mens/unisex - currently have a Large Sirrus, the Pearson is a 54.5cm frame and the MTB, admittedly a female geometry is an 18"

Maybe a Tiagra geared bike would be worth a look - although I do like the simplicity of the double tap - thoughts on any that fit the bill under £700 max?

Mr Duck - my rack bag can get pretty heavy - and is one of the Topeak slidy types - would like to be able to pull this off the Sirrus, ditto the SKS guards

Mr Mick - I don't think I want a heavier bike than the Sirrus, kind of deafeats the point of changing