Under $2000 with style and tradition
I was faced with just your decision earlier this year. $2k to spend and what to buy? As another poster mentioned, the right answer could depend on what your goals are. Speed an any cost? Comfort? Lightest weight?
My goals were formed by my love for the Tour (sorry le tour) and all things Italian. Oh and also a special movie called Breaking Away.
With this in mind, I shopped around giving each cycle shop I went to my three requirements: Italian made, Campy components and Steel.
I ended up with a Colnago Classic with Campy Veloce components for about $1800. It's not the lightest bike around (about 20lbs.) but I simply love it. It looks great, feels great and so far has been very reliable.
Lots of guys in my group ride Colago's (one costing over $7000) so it's not exactly a unique ride. But it is one purchase I will never regret.