General Cycling Discussion - New to biking, need advice - Thanks!

I'm new to biking, I have rode about 2 times a year while at the beach. The bike was a standard Wal-Mart Mtn. bike. It is very uncomfortable. I am now working in D.C. and I would like to get involved with biking more now instead of metroing. I'm not sure how to fit myself for the right bike and I don't even know what brand or style (mtn, road, etc..) that I should start off with (so many out there). I am 6' with a 31' inseam, 270lbs, 12' shoe, lol I don't know if all that is important or not. Any advice will be taken and greatly appreciated. - Randy

It's just like buying a car, go out and test ride a whole bunch and see what works for you!

So just go to stores and they'll let me? I didn't know I could, I've never been to a bike store. Thanks

Definitely. If they don't let you test ride, that's a place not to buy from.

You need a bike that has enough quality to be reliable and durable. $5-800 should get you a decent bike. If this sounds like a large sum of money, compare it with the cost of public transport over 5 years, combined with gym or swimming pool fees.
The best style of bike for urban commuting depends on the distance and the terrain.
For flatter cities and shorter rides, a utility bike like a Breezer is clean and simple.
For longer rides you need something a bit sportier. The flat-bar road bikes such as Specialized Sirrus, Jamis Coda or Trek fx are ideal for most commutes.
If your commute included rough tracks, snow and other difficult surfaces, a non suspension MTB may be better.
Suggest you check out the flat bar road bike first of all.
Whichever style, you really do need threaded eyelets for a luggage rack and full length fenders.
Budget for uprated Kevlar reinforced tyres, rack, fenders, lights, luggage, repair kit, gloves and helmet and lock!!.
A good local bike shop (LBS) can advise on the correct fit and will adjust and tune the bike as well as post sales servicing.

Hook up with a DC bike club and ask for recommendations for a good shop, especially one known for fitting, the most critical part of buying a bike. A good shop will also guide you towards what kind of bike, considering your intended riding uses and your size and weight. And besides the social aspect of riding with a club, you may enjoy learning more about cycling--including good routes--from the more experienced club members.

Looks like MichaelW has hit all the bases except maybe security. Are you going to have a secure place to lock it while at work? Not to suggest there is crime in DC, but. . . .

Hey guys thanks for all of the input. My wife and I went to Capitol Hill bikes in DC and after getting measured on the computer (cool) and riding a few, we both bought a Scott Sportster with 28inch wheels plus some accessories. It turned out to be the cheapest of all them but, it fit us well. The main decision maker was the handle bars didn’t adjust on the other bike that we liked. We knocked out 2 bikes, helmets, SUV rack, gloves, luggage rack, bag, pump, 5 beam headlight/tail light combo, multie tool, nice lock, water bottles, holders and chain lube for around $1250.00. I think the only thing left that I need is a good rain suit that is compactable, Any Suggestions?This bike feels really good and I just had to thank all of you for your advice. I had to get upgraded seats (hard on the buns).

good buy. those things look versatile for street riding. i cant recommend a rain suit, but if you ride in such conditions, i highly suggest getting fenders. no point in keeping your upperbody dry if your legs are soaked :)

Great point red, thanks