Do your shopping! The crappy economy means lots of LBS have plenty of last years stock, or even unsold stuff from 2008.

So instead of suggesting any particular bike I'll say see what you can scare up locally. I got a bike that listed for $2,300 for a grand off - just because it was older stock. It was not traded in stuff, it was all new never sold before with the full warranty and whatnot.

If you can find a similar deal in your area, it means that your $1500 budget might be able to touch a 2009 or 2008 that listed for $2500. A lot more bike for something that still fits the budget.

Good luck hunting!