According to Kevin :
Surly Crosscheck in Durace from Excel Sports for $1250 comes to mind. Did
you look at a Trek XO-1? Many good choices out there.
I'm reminded of my own cross-like frame from the Czech republic. In two
(three?) years I've seen some orangepeel in the powdercoat, but it's
been great otherwise.
http://www.fortframes.com