I know you girls can guide me skillfully through this process. I am looking to purchase a road bike within 0 - 18 months. But I don't want to rush into this major purchase before reseaching thoroughly. I am thinking of spending between $1000 - $3000 for my bike. I currently own a Cannondale Hybrid which I plan on using soley for Rails to Trails once I purchase my road bike.
I am renewing my love of riding and consider my self a novice. My longest bike ride has been 64 miles. I plan on riding in the Seagull Century this October. My hardest ride was the Mount Davis Half Century, Hills, Hills, hills!

I think I would like a wide range of gears, relaxed geometry, light bike, good components, not sure if I am ready for dropped handle bars yet, tires that are not so skinniny I have to worry about every little pothole and gravel on Pa roads.

I know I sound like a real rookey, but please spend some time guiding this novice.