42 YO, Unfit and looking to start commuting!

Cycool

Also not a big fan of Ebay or Gumtree, had bad experiences in past on ebay and try to avoid if possible.

slowbike

I'll give you comments on the Allez as I have one - it was my first roadbike and has now been brought back into service as a dry/damp commuter and winter training bike.

Mine has carbon forks - the only bit I don't "like" about it is the groupset - its Shimano 2300 - I'm planning on changing that to 105 (or possibly tiagra) later in the season. It's the same geometry as my carbon bike and just a kilo or two heavier.
The only changes I've made to it are replacement wheels & tyres and normal running maint... I got a course PB on my commute yesterday morning and I've ridden the same course many times on the carbon bike - so the bike itself won't hold you back.

Cycool

Thanks for that, they do seem to get favourable reviews from owners and nice looking bikes. Will keep my eye out on second hand prices, I may get lucky. Would prefer this over the new Felt but the Felt has very good reviews on Wiggle and may be a good alternative for upgrading later. Wish I could afford the Ribble... maybe some flowers and a bit of begging coming up!