Originally Posted by
Cdst
$3,000 US, but I could stretch it if I find something I love
Lots of nice new bikes for that or less. What did you think of the Giant I linked? Giant is usually a good value and has some rim brake bikes. Also Canyon.
I think rim brakes are fine for most of us most of the time but discs can allow bigger tires.
FWIW I use 25s on my road bikes after using 23s for about 30 years. I think 25s are fine for decent roads. I tried to put 28s on my main bike but it was just too close.