Quote Originally Posted by fidlfreek View Post
Basically, I think people are saying, don't be afraid to get a road bike w/ a drop bar and also w/ an easy riding geometry that puts you more upright. More of a "plush bike" is the industry term. The drops could just be an additional option for you to use whenever you felt comfortable. I see the drop bars as nothing but providing options.
My thoughts also. Specialized cornered the market with "plush bikes"--the Sequoia, Roubaix, and the Dolce. These are lightweight zippy bikes but have a less aggressive geometry than the other road bikes.

Besides the handlebars, you might want to consider a taller stem. Nitto makes one. Also, Specialized has stems that adjust to different angles.