Originally Posted by alan s

For that amount of coin, I would look at a custom build. I'm not talking a custom frame necessarily, but an off-the-shelf frame, components, and wheels you want. These can all be found online easily, and there are numerous custom wheel builders. Basic tools and wrenching skills or a good mechanic at your LBS are also needed, of course. This assumes you have a pretty good idea of what you are looking for in a commmuter bike. I'm not bashing Trek (I have a Madone and couldn't be happier with it), but paying close to MSRP for a Trek makes a custom build a serious contender. If you can get the Trek at around 20-25% off MSRP, then go for it.