When years of potential use are factored, a REI half or quarter dome is probably the most bang for the buck. This only because of REI's liberal return policy. Otherwise, a Hilleberg.

There are $100 tents that will work just fine for the non-addicted tourer. After all, rain is really not a big factor on most tours, and a laundermat to dry damp things out is never far. Besides, if rain is serious, most seem to end up in a motel anyway.