Have you gone for a fitting yet? I am in the same boat - I have $3 - $4k to spend on a bike. If I can get race wheels, cool. If not, I will comb the classifieds and wait until race season begins. If I can't find a decent set for a decent price, I will rent something.
I have been on 10-year old Litespeed Saber that I bought used. It has gotten me thru races of all distance, albeit not very fast (mostly not the fault of the bike). I was "fit" on this bike by some guy who eye-balled it and measured a few angles. He did the best he could with the bike I was working with.
This past weekend, I spent 3 hours (and $250) on a fit session. He used Retul and a fit bike. I really liked the Retul system (because I am kind of a tech junkie. I do think that a good fitter could do a good job without the technology).
Based on my previous bike and the shoulder/neck pain that I have experienced for several years, I fully expected that he would recommend a road bike (or tell me to give up cycling and just run).
Long story short- I came away with a fit recommendatio that seemed comfortable and pretty aero (I guess. No wind tunnel involved, but definitely a flatter back and better hip / arm angles than I had before).
Based on the fitters recommendations, I am leaning towards a Speed Concept 7.(either .5 or .8). He recommeded a size Large, which surprised me. I would have bet big $$$ that I would be on a medium.
The Trek Store in San Diego (
http://trekbicyclesuperstore.com/...cept-7.5-71502-1.htm) has the 2011 SC 7.5 on sale for $3k right now. They won't ship it, but you might be able to find something similar in your area.
Or - check out the new Cervelo Buy 2 bikes and get $2,000 back offer. Find a friend and get a Cervelo. (If it fits right)