That does sound crazy. I got a brand new 2008 Specialized Tarmac on sale for $1450 last year with full 105. Although the Kestrel with Rival does sound pretty reasonable.

I would not go the cheap route with Nashbar or Bikesdirect. The shop I got my bike from offers very good service, 2 years of free tune up, 10% off merchandise with bike purchase, offer to swap stem/seat within a couple weeks of buying the bike if I want to change position, and they're very friendly.

Just go shop around. Ride some bikes and find what you want. Bikes are going to be at their highest price soon because summer/spring is just starting. In October/November there will be some good sales.