Originally Posted by
electrik
I third the "hybrid" bicycle for what you describe. Try looking for wheels that are listed as having 36 spokes because 195lb + gear + pothole is tough on wheels.
Some hybrid models are fairly upright. If you're going for hybrid look for a model that gets you leaned over a bit more over the bike. Otherwise 8 miles + wind may really wind you!
Kona Dew is pretty reasonable hybrid that's not too upright, I use it to commute on. You might also want something with drop bars depending on your preferences - it would be good to try out a few different styles of bikes at a shop.