So recently I have got into longer road rides, and joined a local cycling club to get into road racing. I have been riding bikes for a while, recently it has been fixed gear because I ride urban a lot. I have no desire to get rid of my fixed but I want to branch out to another style of riding. This is where my question comes in, I am looking for something that is a good frame for racing with decent components that will allow my to start out and I can upgrade as I develop. What I want to avoid is getting a entry level bike, because I don't want to have to upgrade frame and everything in one or two season. Also trying to avoid buying just a a frame because I am not as familiar with road components as I am with other styles.

I do plan on going through a LBS but I also know that they are sales people and so I like to have a good idea of what options are out there and why one company or bike is better than the other.

So what am I looking for with this thread is a few bikes that are below $3500 and will allow a rider to develop and build without having to be replaced and why that bike is good or what makes it better than another.