I know the Diverge was already dismissed because of the perceived price premium for Specialized. However, I got a pretty good deal on a 2019 carbon / Ultegra model. Honestly, as I was shopping around, Specialized seemed like the only brand -- in my area -- with any willingness to work with me on price. In the end, I felt like I did pretty well (value-wise). Rides like a dream. No 45mm tires though. I almost didn't buy due to the tire size, but had to be honest w/ myself and acknowledge 45mm wasn't really going to be my thing. For me, my rides are on mostly crappy asphalt to smooth dirt or gravel roads of varying degrees of maintenance. Doubt I'll do any bikepacking, and I have both HT and FS MTB for the singletrack. So 38mm feels great, and I "could" go up to 42mm if I want--or 650b.
Note: the carbon / Ultegra is slightly out of your stated range, but the Carbon / Shimano 105 should be reachable.
Hi guys, in the end I chose for a Rondo Ruut AL. Beautiful bike with generous tire clearance (bought it with 43mm tires), enough mounts and good specs for a reasonable price. I've done just 3 rides but I'm quite impressed. Offroad the bike really comes to live! It's not the most agressive bike but didn't try the LO-geometry. I'll post some pictures later.
Uh, oh. That was my suggestion. Some day I have to ride one - certainly looks like a fun bike. Interested to hear your impression of the variable geometry when you get more seat time.
