You can get good, comfortable street tires without having to put up with the 23mm racer tires. A range of types from 25-32mm will do you just fine.
If your dad has a bike, does he ride it regularly? i.e. is his bike just a toy for him, or does he actually ride? Maybe he can give you some pointers as well.
You are probably best with a hybrid, though I hate to use the term as it's so vague. Narrow down what you think will be best for you with a few visits to bike shops, see what's available in your price range. Then you can narrow it down.
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Originally Posted by
KrisPistofferson
Did you just say "minarchist?" I'm going to start a 10-page vaginathon because only Libertarians can define Libertarianism. Also, you're mean.