Also, regarding frame - I would want a steel mens frame (I'm addicted to lugs.. such a distinguishment on a bike) and probably more of a tour frame. I want something that I can ride around the city and it going to handle the rough under-maintained city streets but also something I can take on a nice long bike ride and be comfortable. Now for me - a nice long bike ride might only be 20 or 30 miles but the whole idea is I'm working my way up to higher mileage this year.
Also, if it helps, I have another bike which is my commuter/beater. It's a woman's frame Schwinn World with Suntour AR. It has been sitting from the old owners and looks brand new still.