If you decide that you don't want the hassle of upgrading your Holdsworth with uncertain results - or going the Craigslist route - there are many good possibilities for a new bike with a more upright riding position, good brakes (mechanical disc), large tires (35mm+), useful gear range low/high with brifter actuation, fenders/racks or the provision for them (usefulness and flexibility), etc.
This is the type of bike that can be used for everything from riding the bike path with your wife, running errands, group rides, gravel or road riding....a wide variety and a bike that is not only for recreation.
The more affordable of these bikes will have aluminum frame/fork - possibly steel - with solid, reliable components like Shimano Sora 9 speed. As you step up the line in a particular model (Kona Rove for example) you will get a carbon fork, then a carbon fork/frame with more expensive (not necessarily 'better') components.
These bikes start at around $1100 +-.
As others have mentioned fit is critical - you have to be able to ride the bike before purchase and get fit advice from the bike shop. If you're not comfortable you won't ride. You might be able to get a bike without the fork steerer already cut down. If not, there are ways to raise the bars after the fact, but this is less desirable than having a proper-length steerer.
Here are some:
Kona Rove DL $1099
Breezer Doppler Pro - $1299
Breezer Radar Expert - $1069
Jamis Renegade Exile - $899
