With a budget of $1000 you can definitely find a very good, used recumbent. There are some cheaper new ones on the market, but why not scour Craigslist to find a bargain?

I'm trying to buy the whole 'bents don't climb well argument, but every ride I take, I prove to myself that they can indeed climb. It's just a different technique and muscle group propelling me to the top.

The biggest advantage for me is that I actually enjoy riding again.