Bike choices for commuting / touring?

[meaculpa]

Hi. I've recently had my mtb stolen & am shopping for an all-around bike for commuting & limited, local touring. My ideal bike should be able to stable enough to carry groceries/laundry, manuever through traffic on bad roads, and maybe take me on a short tour? Those qualities I wish for are nimbleness, speed, stability and comfort. Oh, and a drop bar! Does such a bike exist? Can it be had at/under $1,000?
 
Here are what the local shops have suggested: Jamis Aurora ($800), Surly Crosscheck ($800), Bianci Volpe ($890), Redline Conquest ($950), Specialized Tri-Cross ($1050), Surly LHT ($1600).

Please, any thoughts on a good compromise? I am thinking that I must save up for a seperate touring bike. I'd appreciate your ideas.

[MiraVelo]

I just purchased a Novara Randonee and am really happy with it.

[meaculpa]

Yeah. I looked for the Randonee but they're totally sold out in my region. 2007 comes out around Christmas. I thought this model was cheaper, like $750, but the customer rep said that 2006 was $950 and 2007 may cost more. Thanks for the recommend.

[MiraVelo]

What size do you need?

[Seel]

I bought a Bianchi Volpe last year and am extremely satisfied with it. I've put about 1300 miles on it and the only thing I changed was the saddle.

I put 25mm tires on it for organized rides (Centuries) but for the most part keep Conti Touring (32mm) on it for daily use.

Very durable and comfortable!

[meaculpa]

Hi MiraVelo. The size, I'm estimating, is 56-57cm (I'm 5'10 w/ 31" inseam).

[MiraVelo]

You are basically the same size as me.  I have a 55cm 2006 Randonee.  The REI Flagship Store in Bloomington, MN just got in the last batch of Randonee's with one in each size.  

  These are probably the last of the 2006's before the 2007's come out.  It may be more than you would like to spend but they could ship it to you or a nearby store.  You would need to pay for shipping though.

  One thing nice is that the techs there will properly pack it so that it will minimize the chances of it getting it damaged by UPS or Fed Ex.

  I hope this helps!  Sorry about your bike getting stolen.  

[alfonso]

No-one suggested the Specialized Sequoia?

[meaculpa]

the Specialized Sequoia Elite was the bike most recommended, but I hear the Sport is a good choice. That said, I haven't find them locally yet.

[meaculpa]

Hey, did my biggest purchase in 5-6 years today.  As it turns out I jumped on the last Bianci Volpe the LBS had in my size (58 actually). Right at this moment I am drinking myself thru the buyer's remorse for the $890 price tag.
It just hit corners so nicely, and then accelerated out of them, I was smitten...guess this is like meeting a great girl in Thailand and marrying her (once again, whatwasIthinkn?)
Cheers - John