I would suggest a Giant Bowery. It has aluminum frame if you like that or don't mind it and the 2008 model come is black and has brakes. Also it comes with both a fixed cog and a freewheel mounted on the rear hub. According to the Giant website, the MSRP is $575. I just got a 2007 two weeks ago (I wanted the green) and am quite happy with it so far. Check with your local bike shops as most manufacturers now have some type of single speed or fixed gear bike in their line up. Since you are "totally new to road bikes" take the shop into consideration and buy someplace that makes you comfortable.