You might look at the Trek FX series. It has several levels from 7.1 through 7.9 (I think). As the number goes up, the component groups and frame material does too....and of course the price. They are often characterized as a flat bar road bike. The series also has some models with disc brakes. I have had a 7.5 for 2 1/2 years and find it to be fairly fast and reliable.

P2