re: #19 Charles

Trek has some good entry level road bikes for around $1000. Also Specialized. At that price point it will probably be an aluminum bike, with decent low-end Shimano components.

I’d recommend Bianchi too. And it’s important to remember that at these prices ($800-$1000), it isn’t so much the machine as it is the motor. The important thing is, go for fit. Make sure it feels comfortable. For example, I personally find that some frames stretch me out too much (e.g. LeMonde)