Hello everyone,

Been lurking a long time trying to figure out which type of bike to buy. Leaning toward a performance hybrid.

We live in a very bike friendly area of south florida (long stretches with bike lanes), but also want to hit bad paved trails and hard packed dirt (lightly). I definitely foresee a tri in the future so I want something that won't kill me, but can finish in a pseudo ok time.

Went to all the lbs and one tried to sell me a Giant Escape 2 ($420) another (also giant dealer, btw) told me the Escape is for leisure and I should get the Cannondale Quick 6 ($499), another wanted to sell me a Jamis Coda (dismissed), and as soon as I mention that cyclocross is the coolest thing Iv'e every seen, they show me the $1000+ bikes.

They aren't high pressure, but they aren't very helpful to my needs. Perhaps my questions are strange. I don't know.

Any suggestions?

1. Rigid Fork
2. 700c wheels that can take a more rugged tire if wanted
3. Would like to keep it around $400 or less.
4. I'm not against getting a model with low end components I the frame is good.
5. Would like to fit aero-bars. (not sure if this )

Thanks, Great site
Ive already gained so much info just searching around