Alright, so I have a lot of questions and am tired of picking the LBS workers' brains. Here we go. I own a Nishiki Modulus road bike currently which I love dearly. Not the best components and only a six speed rear cog but its great for touring, long commutes, etc. (perfect since I cant afford anything expensive anyway). I am however, looking to build/buy a new single speed that I can pound through town on. A number of years ago I built a (I believe it was a 61 cm Raleigh Super Grand Prix, I stripped and horridly repainted it) fixed gear and had a lot of fun. The frame geometry of the bike was a little too aggressive for my 6'6" and I remember my back hurting significantly when I was done. This makes me think that a track frame is probably not the way to go. I ride hard and fast and am looking for something that will not keep me hunched over, something that is relatively light weight (possibly aluminum?), and something that looks good. I also want something that will whoop my legs into shape so I am thinking of putting on a significant chain ring, living in Atlanta with all these damn hills it shouldnt take too long. Shying away from the idea of another fixie since Im sick of clipping my pedal on asphalt everytime I speed around a turn, although I do miss skid stopping. Does anyone have any suggestions on a manufacturer or frame that fits any, all, or some of my criteria? Im looking to spend probably more than I should, as I mentioned Im broke, but if I can get something that will last me years, then I will dig deep. (Note: this means ~500$, not 1000$)
Cheers