Hi Ladies,

I need opinions/suggestions/advice on picking out a second bike! I have a Felt F4 that I have really come to enjoy riding, but live right near a limestone path that I'd like to ride on early mornings/evenings and not have to worry about dodging traffic. I'm also interested in doing some border to border state touring next summer, so I'd like something that can serve both purposes.

So my questions....

Frame materials? Aluminum?
Disk brakes?
Flat bar/drop bars? Whats most comfortable on long rides?

I just finished my masters degree in June and this is my present to myself I don't have a ton to spend, but I'm flexible up to $1200ish (total). I'd like to purchase from my LBS if possible, they deal Specialized, Giant and Surly. But I'm open to the collective TE wisdom!

Happy riding and thanks for your advice!