I love the look and style of the french-inspired 650B rando bikes as seen in BQ magazines. Perhaps my favorite style of bike. However, the novelty of owning one has worn off. I've done the 650B conversion thing, the front bar bag thing, and when it comes to riding distances at higher speeds, I reach for my modern road sport bike every time. 650B tubes and tires still aren't stocked in any LBS within a 100 mile radius of me, but 700c options are plentiful. A large saddlebag and a $7 map holder (like this: Cue Sheet Holder | Banjo Brothers) instantly negate most of the benefits of needing a front bag/rack too.

The Pass Hunter is gorgeous. There's a lot I like about it. The Black Mountain Cycles offerings would be another option. I'm finding that my All-City Mr. Pink can handle 99% of the long rides I do, whether it be gravel or pavement. Columbus Zona steel, super stiff but comfortable, and well thought out frame details make it a great all-rounder. Worth adding to the list if it still falls into your budget.