Take a look at a CycloCross 29'er
http://www.bikesdirect.com/products/gravity/zilla.htm
Shimano Sora 27Spd Disc Brake Cross 29er 2012 Gravity Zilla $499
or a more traditional Hybrid Road Bike
http://www.bikesdirect.com/products/fuji/absolute_3.htm
Shimano Acera 24 Speed Flat Bar Hybrid 2011 Fuji Absolute 3.0 $399