Thanks for the answers, all. The Civia Hyland is near as dead-on, if I can afford it. The Thorn Raven is likewise awesome, would be perfect with disc tabs but L700 frame only! I hadn't thought of the S.I.R. but I would want to test-ride it first - I already have a fine MTB, I'm looking for a pavement-specific bike this time around.

I realize that the cheap/ugly frame is a bit schizophrenic - Having convinced myself that I want discs and the Rohloff, I'm pretty much building a thief magnet. So, having a heavy, ugly frame is a halfhearted attempt to keep the bike not much over $1000 (the Rohloff was only half my budget - a good deal). Also, I don't want a harem of bikes, so this one is going to suck down salt, slush, etc. and will suffer in winter commuting.

The Paragon slider idea might be what I go with, if Craigslist will provide.