My sub-entry-level Dawes Lightning 1200 (used and cheap) started at 24.2 lb. Now sitting at 22.8 lb after drivetrain upgrades.

no-name triple crank => Race Face Cadence 53/39 (pricepoint clearance)
ST-2200 shifters => Nashbar Microshift 10-speed
Sora rear derailleur => RD-5700 105
2200 triple front derailleur => Nashbar front
12-24 8-speed cassette => 12-27 105