for $2000.00 you will be able to get a great bike w/good components.

you've been given excellent advice here.

I can vouch for a steel frame. my road bike (my baby!) is steel frame w/carbon fork and carbon seat post (I'm trying top let my bones age w/minimal damage!). I really notice the difference of a steel frame at about mile 40. (my old road bike was aluminum w/carbon fork and carbon seat post--also a 49cm like my current road bike--too harsh after 40 miles).

the bottom line: test ride, test ride, test ride. get connected with a bike shop that will know what type of riding you will do...that will also treat you with respect, too.

saddles are personal, I know use a brooks on both my commuter and my road bike.