Originally Posted by
Nozzle
+1
I'm the original owner and current user of a commuterized '92 Hard Rock and it... well... rocks. A while back I was in the same position as OP (similar budget) but quickly learned on this forum that I could turn my old Rock into a good commuter. And it is.
+2
Those 90's model Specialized Rockhopper and Hard Rock frames make great commuters, and are easy to find used on Craigslist. A good 80's model steel road frame would fit the bill as well.