Thanks all. I appreciate the suggestions for looking for vintage bikes, but I'm pretty well set on buying new (or at least used but recent production). From what I have seen, the vintage bikes either don't offer modern options I'd like (threadless headsets, modern groups sets, something other than a square taper bb) or would require more modification than I want to bother with. New is easier.
Originally Posted by
velopig
Just go out and buy the best new bike you can afford from a reputable bike shop. The last thing you want is to buy a clapped out old bike with outdated components. New lower tier bikes perform better and have more features than the old stuff recommended. Good luck finding parts for components that have been out of production for a decade or more unless your thrill is searching the eBay auctions with your fingers crossed.
This is my feeling as well.
It seems my options in my price range and requirements are limited. This is probably a good thing, as I'll have fewer bikes to test before making a decision.