If the Surly Trucker Deluxe doesn't suit your fancy, then I would suggest that you consider the following drop handlebar candidates:

1) The Surly Long Haul Trucker (700 c) ~ $1250
http://surlybikes.com/bikes/long_haul_trucker

2) The Trek Steel Cross Lane ~ $1200
www.trekbikes.com/us/en/bikes/road/cyclocross/steel_cross/lane/

3) The Raleigh Sojourn ~ $1200
www.raleighusa.com/bikes/steel-road/sojourn-12/

4) The Salsa Vaya ~ $1350
http://salsacycles.com/bikes/vaya_3

5) The Jamis Aurora ~ $950
www.jamisbikes.com/usa/thebikes/road/aurora/12_aurora.html

6) The Trek 520 ~ $1480
www.trekbikes.com/us/en/bikes/road/touring/520/520/

7) The Raleigh Roper ~ $1500
www.raleighusa.com/bikes/steel-road/roper12/

8) The Nashbar Steel Cyclocross ~ $750
www.nashbar.com/bikes/Product_10053_10052_526536_-1_202339

9) The Gran Turismo ~ $800
www.bikesdirect.com/products/motobecane/gran_turismo.htm

10) The Salsa Fargo ~ $1750 rf
http://salsacycles.com/bikes/fargo

black = ht mtb

rf =rigid fork mtb

blue = touring

brown = hybrid

green = cx

Good Luck!

- Slim

* The recommended Jamis Coda Elite can have its stock 32mm tires changed to 38mm wide tires.