stay domestic?
Cycles Marinoni - Sterrato comes in a quality steel frame too. Not sure if prices are CAD or not though.
https://www.norco.com/bikes/road/gravel/ The Search has a ton of different models.
https://www.racycles.com/product/detail/19709 Argon 18 Dark Matter for $4200 CAD. GRX group, carbon, etc.
https://www.brodiebicycles.com/all-2020-romax multiple models
Or there are tons of mixed road/pavement plus options from Cannondale(synapse and topstone), Specialized, Giant, Cervelo, and more. Most modern endurance disc bikes can clear 32mm tires(or more), if thats all you are looking for.
Something that wont be mentioned is the Fairlight Strael 2.0 as comes in a huge number of sizes due to their R and T sizing, has road angles and trail measurements, can clear a 33mm tire, and uses quality tubing. the Shimano 105 build is below budget.
https://fairlightcycles.com/product/...v=7516fd43adaa
As for the Domane being too heavy- thats absurd. It isnt lightweight, but it also isnt heavy. I always chuckle when someone buys a road bike that weighs 18# new, and puts frozen hose Gatorskin tires and a big wedge bag on it, whiich completely negates the point of the bike's design and spec. And this doesnt even begin to address rider weight and how that obviously totally changes any design intent for many road bikes. A 22# bike or a 19# bike shouldnt be a huge concern to most, even though it is.
- Find a bike with the geometry that you like(fit and handling).
- Buy what you can afford in terms of components.
- If you then want to upgrade either immediately or down the line, focus on tires and wheels as those will have the biggest impact on comfort, road feel, and effort.
Almost forgot- look into the Ribble CGR. It comes in multiple models and is continually well reviewed.
GT Grade too.