everyone has been so helpful, i wanted to provide an update.

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i did get my current bike's shifting checked out and it was a problem with the actual shifters. seems to be a little better.

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here are some options i've found:

http://archive.fujibikes.com/2016/Fuji/sportif-21- size 49, $500---no upgrades, seems double the bike blue book value.

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https://archive.fujibikes.com/2014/Fuji/finest-15-t2 size 47

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https://www.amazon.com/Jamis-Ventura-Sport-Shimano-Monterey/dp/B07HCPQ74N/ size 48

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i would need new wheels for any of these as expected but i think they'd get me started, at least.