Seconding the old/new Madison idea. I just got a 2010 for $300, and love it (similarly spec'ed to the ’09's hubs/crank/seat). The ’09 seems a bit better out of the box, imo, given the drop bars and more subtle coloring, but that's all a matter of personal taste. All I know is it's a great ride, entry-level or no, and made urban commuting fun again after being on a hardtail mtb for way too long.