Most similarly priced bikes offer the same basic performance. I dont know if any of the NC Performance bike stores are near Youngsville, but I find them to have good bikes for good prices. Alot of folks tend to look down on them, but often you get a bit more for the money than other stores. My wife just got a fuji Absolute and loves it. Its a nice reasonably light bike with room for racks and fenders. Cruiser bikes look cool, but are kinda on the slow side and can limit your enjoyment if you want to go a little faster.

If you join Performance bike club you get an additional 10% bake in store credit. If you buy a Fuji right now, you get double that for 20% back. Membership is a one time $25.00.

Might be something to consider if you have one close.