Ha! I just realized my Jamis Aurora (touring) has the same gearing as the 1500 triple.
No wonder people say the Aurora's gearing is ridiculous for a touring bike.
You should be able to get a decent craigslist deal on a road bike, since a lot of them turn up for half price, barely ridden (what would used buyers do without people who buy fancy bikes, ride them once, then decide the sport "isn't for them?"
)