+1 on Jamis bikes. I have a 2007 Aurora with over 5,000 miles that has served me well as 'a very capable around-town, commuter, recreational and light touring bike'. Other than replacing the chain once and the rear tire (both normal wear and tear items), there have been no other issues with the bike. Mine is all stock except for the crankset and bottom bracket which I had swapped at time of purchase to lower gearing (48-36-26) for touring.
The 2009 Aurora Elite is a very nice bike, lighter than the Aurora by about 4lbs, but with the same geometry. Older models of Aurora Elite have a different geometry.