OK, then it is time to get out and test ride a few new bikes. Trek, Cannondale, Giant, Specialized are some of the big names. In your price range, expect an aluminum frame, with maybe a carbon fiber fork. Components will be either Shimano 2300 or Claris, or Sora. Tiagra or 105 will push you above your budget. They are all pretty comparable. Ride them and see if you like the feel of aluminum.
I personally like the feel of steel. In your price range, you can get a Jamis Quest Comp, which is nicely spec'd with Sora Components, Carbon fiber fork, and 9 speed shifters, and a triple crankset. All for under $1,000.
The only thing I would consider is at your weight, you may need to budget for a new back wheel at some point. But then again, maybe not. Ride it and see if it holds without breaking spokes.
Some people are going with cyclocross bikes, which are purpose built for cyclocross racing, but seem to have a following here. They are drop bar bikes with clearance for wider tires. Check them out. Kona Jake, Surly Cross Check, Trek Cross Rip, for example.
Last edited by MRT2; 04-18-14 at 05:10 PM.