OK so I'm looking for something specific and as this is going to be my first Road Bike purchase I have a few questions. Initially I wanted to buy a Bianci Fremont, but decided $700-$800 was a bit more than I wanted to spend on my bike.

I'm going to be primarily using this to go to work everyday (.8 miles) and exercise on the weekend (10-20 miles). I live in New York City.

So my main requirements in no particular order are:

1. Reliable, solid.
2. Light weight.
3. $300-$400 budget
4. I prefer a plain black or silver bike. Nothing fancy.
5. Single speed, NOT fixed gear.
6. Rust proof? I'll be locking it outside of my office, so if it rains I don't want it to get damaged.
7. Approximately a 49cm frame. I am 5'5" and tried out a 49cm Bianci which felt alot better than the larger bikes.

My main question is, I know most people sit very "leaned forward" when riding these bikes, but on my way to work when I'm navigating through traffic, is it possible to raise the handle bar/lower the seat so I can have a more "upright" comfortable ride?

Here are some bikes I'm looking at right now:

http://www.performancebike.com/shop/...tegory_ID=3040

http://www.bikesdirect.com/products/dawes/sst.htm

Post up anything you would recommend. Thanks and I'm happy to join this great community!