Hey all! I just got seriously into road biking this spring and now commute on my old road bike (a '77 columbia I got at a local LBS that specializes in used bikes) and ride the road on my Trek 1.2.

Dad has decided to get back on a bike. He has a really crappy bike right now, but has ridden enough to know he enjoys it again and would like to ride. He has had road bikes (that's how I fell in love with them) and mountain bikes, but really wants a hybrid. He wants to go look at bikes and asked me to recommend him where to go. Well, I could... if I knew what bikes and brands to look for. I am clueless with this. I don't do anything but drops and a more upright bike is not my specialty.

I can go with and help him get fitted and I am a mean bargainer (as evidenced by getting the 2010 model for the same price as the 2009), but I need some help!

What he is looking for:
multiple gears
upright handlebars
light enough (preferably aluminum) - I did explain to him that it will never be as light as mine
good for a small person (he's 5'5'' on a good day)
under $650.00

I know now is a good time to look because those 2011's are coming out and they need to move the 2010'a.

Anything you could recommend is great! Thanks!