That large o' man ought to condider a steel frame, NO,NO on the carbon.His weight neutralizes any benefit to such a frame not to mention safety concerns. Bikes than cost LESS than $1,000 have 32 spoke wheels may look good on paper but may need tuning frequently at his weight at least they can be trued. Bikes that cost more have lighter faster wheels,NO go for him either. Cyclecross bikes cost $1,200 or more. Notable exceptions are bikes by Jamis, Bianchi,these two sites are informative ,even if you choose a dif. bike . Kona perhaps has bikes that will work.