I just found this forum today and have been reading through as much as possible, trying to prevent the tendency of the same questions getting posted over and over again as happens on most forums. However, I am still feeling uncertain and would like some input.
I have a 2007 7.2fx that I bought in 2008 when I was looking for a "real" bike (that is, something nicer than the Huffy-level bikes I had been riding since childhood). That bike was amazing to me, very light and comfortable, and I got it for a great deal since it was the previous year's model. It is still a great bike and I ride apx 10-15 miles 3 days a week, but I am looking for something a little better now, since I would like to be able to do more with my bike, including commuting to work (approximately 25 miles round trip).
I do have some issues with my current bike. Brake rub. Bottom bracket needs to be replaced soon. I changed out the seat and grips within the past year for reasons of comfort. Constant flats! The last thing is my biggest problem. I have inspected the wheels and tires, and yet had to replace the tubes, fill up with goop, air up, etc constantly. I live out in the country. The roads are asphalt mixed with some gravel and some dirt roads. I avoid the dirt roads because it does not perform well, especially when the tires are actually aired up the way I like them.
I really wanted my husband to get a bike so we could ride together as a quality time enjoyment. Finally he went out to get a bike and came home with a mountain bike. I personally am not all that into mountain biking, and even more so after trying my 7.2fx on one of the lighter trails not too far from us. I don't get a good workout, and the trek had me wanting to take a sledgehammer to it. I was hoping we could go do some day rides in western PA and that sort of thing. I guess not.
So anyway, those are my gripes and wants. I am thinking I want a "cyclocross"-ish bike. I have been looking at the Trek Cross Rip Sport or Elite, Liv/Giant Invite 2, and Specialized Tricross/Diverge. Again, I live somewhat rural and bike shops are not that numerous. I have not even been able to see or ride any of these bikes, which makes me hesitant to pull the trigger. I may have to take a trip to a bigger city (~3 hours away to Philly or Baltimore) so I can test ride and such. I also like the look of the Specialized Dolce Elite Disc, but I don't think I can mount anything to it and it wouldn't handle offroad very well I don't think
I guess I am looking for further suggestions on bikes to consider. My main wants are drop bar, disc brakes, carbon fork, sora or better, and $1500 really is my max. I would prefer closer to the $1000-$1250 range. I also like the option to mount racks and fenders in the future, and be able to go on some light trails with my husband so his bike doesn't rot away in the garage.
The three closest shops carry Specialized, Felt, Cannondale, Trek, Giant, and Bianchi.
I appreciate any help from you gals.
Also, I am 5'4", 30" inseam. My 7.2FX is a 17.5