ReturnToMonkeyI have an alum 2010 Giant I got from a used sporting good store for $300. A little tuning up and it works great.
I was gifted a steel racing Raleigh from the 80s that is way faster and I ride it mainly, but it's a bit less comfortable.
Honestly just find something that is affordable, research the right parts to make it ride really well, and you'll be set. I ride my bike everywhere and my friends are amazed how fast I get places (even though other people's Strava KOMs make me feel like a pleb). Great for ski muscles just like mountain biking
Absolutely love riding my bike cause the distances you can travel given just a few hours, and around town I'm essentially the same speed (or faster) than someone in a car. Definitely think the same about Strava KOMs, some people just on another level chasing KOMs.