Not sure why you're adverse to downtube shifters. They're inexpensive and reliable. When you're looking at lower-cost bikes, for a given price point a bike with downtube shifters will likely have much better components.

And a used bike will probably get you a lot more bike for a dollar amount. As far as why they're not ready in five days, who knows?

And a Trek Pilot for $300? If the bike is in good condition, that's a helluva lot nicer than what you'll get on BikesDirect for $300.