I would check out the Jamis line. They usually provide a nice bike for a nice price. Right now may not be the best time to buy though (used at least). I usually see better deals or offerings right around April and then again around late August and September. If you have friends or family in the larger cities, you might want them to help keep an eye out for you. If you do decide to venture to a larger city, plan to make a day out of it. Have multiple bikes you want to look at, but also let the person(s) know your predicament to see if they will hold it for a time being.