I had the trek 7.5 and I hated it. I loved it when I first got it, but as a started to do more miles, it just got more uncomfortable. I just got a road bike and it is infinitely better. There are some nice road bikes in your price range. Two that come to mind or the orbea fleche (http://www.orbea-usa.com/fly.aspx?la...xid=57&pid=160) or jamis ventura (http://www.jamisbikes.com/usa/thebik...turaracef.html)

mary