I've already changed some things since I took this photo, but I got a Trek 950 on Craigslist for $35. I didn't really use any of the original parts; built it up with stuff I already had.

In this photo, the 44T ring works fine in the center position and gives me good gearing with a 12-23 8-speed cassette, but has chain drop issues to the outside. The derailleur in the photo is a dummy, acting as a chain guide.

I've changed stems since this photo and it feels exactly like my road bikes.