Dude, you're in NY City. $1300 is what the handlebars on the high end bikes cost. Anything under $4000 IS entry level. Good luck. And of course, bring your Gold Card.

After you've gotten your bike, take a ride up to Piermont Bicycle Connection and hang out front on a Sunday morning with the other Manhattan weenies. It's a blast. You may see me there some morning. Enjoy.