I'm usually a fan of X-Mart bikes because they are cheap ways to get into the hobby. In your case I think it might be helpful for the first bike to come from a shop that can help make sure everything is up and running/fitting as it should. That said it will be helpful no matter what you use it for to learn basic bike maintenance.

As for your current ride. Getting some road specific tires instead of knobbies will make a world of differnce. I know. I did. Also the bars can be changed to more cruiser style. This maybe somewhat complicated but it can be done. If you buy bars and do at home its could be done probably around $30.00. The shifters, grips, and all will come off. I expect they could all be put on bars that come back and put you more up right. I did this with my hybrid Huffy from X-Mart. I have wrist problems and flat bars just don't work for me. Oh and even if you don't buy an electra bike check out their seats.