I'm 53 and need to get into better shape. I'm not really large but big enough I figure I better take size into account in bike selection. Besides my weight, there are so many types of bikes now compared to when I last looked at bikes, or at least so many more labels than before, city, hybrid, comfort, commuter, etc. and I don't know where to start.

I used to ride in a prior lifetime but haven't for well over a decade. I want something with a fairly upright and comfortable riding position. My hero was the tortoise not the hare. I don't plan to race ever but would like to be able to hold maybe a 14-15 mph pace easily for up to a half century if/when I work up to that point.

So, I'm looking for suggestions of what bikes to look at that are at least a little stronger than the average bear and in a budget of $750 or less. Thanks for all input.