My advice... Damn the budget, buy the bike(s) you really want. The one that you just *have to* ride.
Until cycling is fully integrated in your lifestyle, you'll find a zillion reasons not to ride. Best make sure one of those isn't your bike.
Another category to look into: cyclocross bikes. Eminently practical, well built (clyde friendly!), and they sure aren't your dad's frumpy looking touring bike or mom's hybrid.
