Hey guys -

So I'm relatively new to cycling, up until now I had been only using cycling as crosstraining for running and skiing. I'm going to graduate college next May though, so my collegiate running career will be essentially over. I would like to get into tris (and still do a good bit of running races as well) after college, but I really like road biking too and would like to do some bike racing - essentially, I'm not looking to purchase a tri-specific bike. If I do get into tris I'll probably end up getting a tri bike, but for now, I'd like to get a good road bike.

My current road bike is a GT series 4 (2009) ...Sora components, etc. It has done well for me but frankly I'd like a lighter bike with more reliable components - I've had tons of issues with the derailers. Also, the alexrims that came with the bike are total crap but I can't justify getting new wheels because a good wheelset would probably cost me as much (and could easily cost more than) the bike itself.

I can currently set aside probably 1250$ and cpuld set aside another $1000-1250 by the end of December - or at least that's my goal. So, my question is, what sort of bike could I get with this budget? Should I save more and wait longer? Should I spend less (ie would I be getting too nice a bike for myself)?

Any input would be very much appreciated. Thanks!