I commute about 15 miles a day round trip on a specialized rockhopper with slick tires. I am looking to upgrade to a faster ride(something with tires larger than 26in) and an all around nicer bike. I currently use my bike everyday to get to and from work, get around minneapolis, and for exercise. I ride about 150-200 miles a week.

Can anyone recommend a good bike between $500-$1000. I want a bike that is subtle and unique(so it won't get stolen), but also faster than what I currently use. I would like a bike that can accommodate a rear rack.

I am worried that my mechanic skills aren't adequate to properly size and build a bike off a frame, but I would be willing to pay a LBS to assemble it.

Does anyone have any suggestions for bikes or frames I could purchase? So far I've been looking at some touring and cyclocross bikes.

Thanks for any help.