I have a Bruce Gordon BLT and while I keep up with the B class or more active club riders here I wouldn't use such a heavy frame for riding with Cat 3 types. Bruce does make regular bikes, custom even, but not in your price range. Get one of the credit card touring bikes. Rei has two. There are lots. The Sirus looks fine for commuting until you go 20 or 30 miles or more each day. PM the names on my commute distance poll that go the distance you need to go and see what they ride. You do not have to wait years to go touring. Little kids in a trailer. Older kids can ride a tandem or their own bikes.