Oh, thank you so much! Trying to cross-reference the cycling website's recommendations with various consumer guide websites has made my head spin. I am completely willing to take outrageous advantage of your significant other's time and enthusiasm. *g*

I'd have to say that budget would be $800-1000 at the outside. My mother, excited that I've finally found a hobby that's going to get me outside and exercising instead of sitting inside at a computer all the time, has said that she and my father are willing to help me pay for it as a graduation present.

*happy flail*