New bike for commuting and more?

[vickster]

If the roads really aren't very good and you are open to no suspension and drop bars, a CX bike might be best. Drops give you more hand positions than flat bars (although bar ends help) and a more aero position down hills when you hold the bottom bits. The speed on a road bike, as well as the rider, comes from lower weight and skinnier tyres. However, on rough roads these may not be the best, especially somewhere wet like Manchester and Wales!!

Maybe a Giant like this http://www.wiggle.co.uk/giant-tcx-3-2012/

 

[Cyclist33]

Right on budget, how about this bad boy for urban commutes but sturdy enough for rocky roads http://www.edinburghbicycle.com/products/cannondale-bad-boy-fatty-rigid-6-12

 

[mip]

Sounds like a cross bike would fit your requirements. Maybe with road tyres fitted. Edinburgh Bicycle Co-op have a store in Manchester.

http://www.edinburghbicycle.com/products/revolution-cross-12
http://www.edinburghbicycle.com/products/revolution-cross-sport-12
http://www.edinburghbicycle.com/products/revolution-cross-pro-12