Giant Contend SL1.... FWIW,I love my carbon bike. The ride is a little smoother than my aluminum bike, but I would say that aluminum is still good. Also, my commute is only 8 miles one way, but I much prefer my road bike to my hybrid even if I have to wear a backpack. Hell,I prefer my road bike at almost any distance. Is just more of a game to get out.

I'm same height, and similar inseam (I'm a little longer), but I ride 52cm bikes with long stems. You might be able to do the same, but you would end up with more drop to your bars that might be hard for you...

Solid rubber the sounds like having boat anchors attached to the bike, and probably extremely poor ride too. No flats though.