I've been looking to get a new bike, I'm not a hardcore cyclist but I'm looking for something similar to my rusty trusty old Specialized Hard Rock that I've put a set of narrower rims & high pressure tires on.. Unfortunately the only thing left on it that still works are the new wheels... I have beat this bike into the ground for over 12 years and it's time to upgrade.
I've been drooling over a KHS Urban Xtreme that I tried out, it's fast and agile enough for dodging the potholes and bad drivers here in Chicago. Any opinions on this bike, or anything similar out there? I guess, semi-more importantly, is there anything a little cheaper, in the $250-350 range that I should consider?

Similar would be the Specialized Sirrus,Marin ALP,Fuji Absolute,and Jamis Coda. All are available in different specs/price points.

If you're looking in the $250-350 range,you'll either need to go used on CL or look for a leftover on clearance.

You know about the KHS Urban Xpress, right? I believe it's the same frame as the Xtreme, but with no carbon fork and lesser components. $389.

The Marin Muirwoods is $429.

The Bianchi Avenue is $350.

Kona Dew is $399. All the above bikes are steel; this one is aluminum.

Yes, Urban Xpress. That's the one I'd pick (and did a year ago).

I went with the Marin Muirwoods. It was the perfect size & layout for me, took it out yesterday for some bike path fun!

And of course there's my soon to be winter bike:
https://www.norco.com/2007bikes/Comfo...view=1&deets=1

The Norco LRT express - you may be able to get a deal now as the 08's will be out in october/november so they may want to move out the "old" stock.