General Cycling Discussion - Need some recommendations.

Quick version of a long story. Im a disabled vet, due mainly to asthma and have been unable to excercise much the past few years. Ive been feeling a little better and me and my family had got some bikes around last christmas. On my first ride I had a flat tire and ended up carrying the bike for over a mile. Also the gears were always messed up. It was a cheap bike. I threw it away out of disgust and now Im looking for something better. I need something a bit better. Im 6'2 200 lbs and my old mountain bike was also uncomfortable. I have been looking at the hybrid bikes and they seem like they would fit my needs. Does anyone have any recommendations on models and what size I would need? Thanks

How was your old bike uncomfortable? Are you planning on just riding around on the local paved trails & roads or will you be heading offroad?

You will absolutely want to go to a local bike store (not Walmart, etc.) and you will need to do some test rides. A competent salesperson will be able to pick the size frame that is appropriate for your body (height does not directly correspond to frame size). A local bike store will also setup your bike properly so everything works + they will support you after the sale.

You've already learned 2 things: Learn how to change or patch a tire (and have the tools to do so) and have a way of contacting family / friends.

Mostly road, maybe a tiny bit of grass I might have to go through, up a few hills and stuff. I absolutely plan on going to a bike shop and doing this but I want a few recommendations and what to look for before a salesman gets ahold of me. My last bike just had an uncomfortable seat I guess. Not too much time on it because it would constantly break.

Hybrids are a great way to go for casual recreational biking, and biking in general is a great way to get yourself in shape.

What's your price range?

(And it's a shame you threw out that other bike. It's a relatively simple mechanical device, and I'm sure that whatever was wrong with it could have been fixed with less fuss than getting a new bike. Also, next time you blow a tire, walking the bike is a lot easier than carrying it.)

The old bike was a huffy, its really better off in the trash. Dont really have a price range set yet. I was thinking 300-400. I was at Dicks sporting goods and they had a Nishiki that seemed pretty nice, plus it was on clearance. Not sure how good they are.
This is it I think.

http://www.dickssportinggoods.com/product/index.jsp?productId=11335430&cp=4413993

If you don't want to mess much with shifting gears, there are a variety bikes with internally-geared hubs on the market - think of an old 3-speed - only with 3-8 (or more) speeds. Again, check out a bike shop.

That was my intent but they close pretty early. Maybe this weekend I can make it in.