I stayed up looking, researching, drooling, and memorizing bike specs. I am still no where.
The LBS around me carry; Cannondale, Trek, Giant, Specialized, GTR, and Fuji. I have no knowledge about the last two-anyone?

I am looking for a reasonably priced bike (read: under $1000) that will last me thousands of miles, on road and on bike trails (rails to trails, etc.). I like hills and speed.

The tricky part is, finances are low.

A few bike brands mentioned: Kona and Jamis-I would need to travel hours to even try one out. Is it worth the drive or would I be just as satisfied with a Trek, Cannondale, or Giant? At least the LBS artound here carry those.

AUGH! Please, please help.