Originally Posted by
acidfast7
i would get something like this:
700c
shimano hydraulic discs
mounts for racks/fenders front and rear
moderate trekking front suspension for urban areas that is adjustable and lockable
48T up front
11T-34T on back
maybe throw some Egron grips on and run it until it breaks.
500€ in super expensive europe.
http://www.biker-boarder.de/shopware...-Groesse-46-cm
if you're in the US, a Specialized Sirrus is close, but more slightly expensive without front suspension.
I have a Speciized Sirrus for commuting (Actually I have the Sport which is one step up from the base, but the base would be fine). It works great for commuting. A regular road bike might not be so comfortable on the poor roads and the typically narrower tires will be uncomfortable (read bumpy, maybe issues with sand/gravel and may flat more often). Personally, I like the upright position a hybird offers when I'm near traffic.
The cyclecross type of bike may work for you if you want drops, but seems out of your budget.