mookytx

I live out in the sticks my ride to town is about 5 miles on oil top with about 79% pot holes and crappy patches, once into town its smooth and well taken care of. this is a city of 35,000 with no bike lanes or paths. I will be using it for exercising and possibly commuting if I work out a storage problem. My LBS want $870.00 out the door for the 2010 model.
I used to ride like an obsessed maniac 15 years ago but now need to loose 30 lb and want to cardio exercise. In time I will not be riding every day but want to think I will be using it for the rest of my life if I am able. My last bike I rode it for 5 years till I graduated college then corporate life took over and now 16 years later I pulled the bike out the barn and its well lets say I spent more trying to get it back to riding shape than I paid for it.
So what do ya'll think am I over buying with the Fuji Sunfire 1.0 if so what do you recomend.
My original budget was $600.00 or less for a bike.
I am not wealthy this economy has kicked my butt and I make less than $30,000 a year and need to really economize as much as possible. you know wife three kids and grand kids and all.
thanks
kenny