Check the for sale forums!!
Man, I'd just search the classifieds and buy yourself something well under $2,000 that has already been upgraded, pimped out and tested!! Someone usually needs money for something and will "fire sale" their pride and joy!
Trust me, take a look at all the loot in the for sale forum!!!!
You'll also find something a little more "boutique" than the regular, run of the mill, pedestrian brands like Kona, Giant, Norco etc....
Also, if you don't like it, you usually get your money back on a 2nd hand ride... and then you can try something else without burning any more of your hard earned buckaroonies!!