Senior Member
Join Date: Apr 2005
Location: Minneapolis, MN, USA
Posts: 1,152
Bikes: 1990 Burley Bossa Nova, 1992 Paramount PDG-70, 1993 Specialized Stumpjumper, 2005 Jamis Dakar XC Pro, 2007 Rivendell Bleriot
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There isn't really such a thing as a 'fast' bike... there are just fast riders.
That said, it sounds like what you need is a decent quality road bike - that is, if i'm understanding you correctly and you only ride on the road, not off. If the roads you ride on are bad or you ride on gravel and other rougher surfaces (but not trails with boulders and roots etc), then you might consider a cyclocross bike or something with clearance for fatter tires.
If you do ride off-road a lot, then yes, a hardtail mountain bike might be a good bet. Full suspension is nice and all, but unless you spend at least about $1400, you're better off without it as the cheap ones suck.
As for what to buy... you kind of have to specify a budget, since there are too many choices. Usually if you buy new, you should expect to pay more than $500 for something good. Used, it depends on your luck...