Originally Posted by CliffordK

This is what most people think of when you ask about road bikes (or 10-speeds, ok, it says 12 speed. )

I didn't do an exhaustive search, but this would make a good road bike for your needs. Albeit, on the top end of your budget.

Nishiki Olympic 21” Road Bike 12-Speed $300.00

[img]https://i.ebayimg.com/00/s/NTUwWDc1MA==/z/N4oAAOSwkVVbX0oG/$_20.JPG

That is, if you are actually looking for a road bike.

Are you doing year-around riding?

Perhaps get a road bike for those spring/summer/fall days, and hunt for a beater MTB for the mid-winter riding.