lots of good advice here, thanks guys.

I think my best option will probably be going with a mtb frame. The slanted top tube thing is simply a matter of looks. I'm just shooting for what she see's as the ideal bike, but sacrifices must be made in order to stay within budget. If she doesn't go for the mtb then I'll just try to convince her to shell out a little more and just buy a complete bike.

What you guys think of SE drafts? They're slightly cheaper than the windsor, but it's made of hi-ten. Is that going to be significantly crappier than cro-mo?