My roomie has an Absolute 3.0, and I can't say I'd recommend it just because it's very bottom of the line. If you don't see yourself getting into cycling too seriously, then the Absolute will be fine, but there are better bikes in your price range. I just can't see flat bars being good unless you're riding on rough terrain, anyway. Drop bars get you into a better position, and I feel like it also strengthens your upper body/core better as you have to maintain good posture.