If you are looking to buy one bike to serve multiple purposes, get a hybrid. If your main goal is to push yourself and get fit, get a road bike. Don't fall into the trap that you can slap on some drop bars and you are magically going to have a road racer. It's not that simple. Not a hybrid hater, I just realize their limitations. I have a 94' Specialized Crossroads, my daughter has a 94' Trek 720, and I just bought a 90' Trek 750 that I am eagerly waiting it's arrival.