You seem be saying two different things. Performance bikes usually don't have racks...

So let's see...
Surly Pacer (check out the Road Bike Review.com reviews)
Specialized Seqouia
Salsa La Raza (not sure if it will take a rack)

There are others, you need to hit a few bike shops and test ride some bikes.
I suggest heading down to the Boston area. Ton of bike shops... Belmont Wheelworks is one of the best bike shops in New England.

QBP has a program by which your dealer can order a parts package at a very good price if you get the frame from them as well. This would make getting a frame like the Surly Pacer a bit easier.

You could also get a frame and then buy bits here and there. There being ebay...

I think with most bikes you will be changing the saddle and tires, so I wouldn't write a bike off because of that.