ANY advice is appreciated
I recently was looking to purchase a good strong commuter and something I can comfortably ride long rides and some gravel as well perhaps. I was hung up on surly and salsa for a long time but I would like to keep it sub $1,000. I am finally open to other brands. I am looking for something simple as well that I can maintain easily and keep strong over the years. I live in the mountains as well so my commute is an average 300ft incline one way. I am 5'11" and weigh 195lbs. I'm a decently strong rider as well (if any of this information helps). So my bottom line is, what is a good company or bike that can get me around and I can have a little fun on while being able to maintain and keep her up without worrying about breaking extra hardware??