most people at that price range will steer you towards a used bike, which is makes sense. When I was in the market for "my first hybrid", I wanted a new one under 300. I figured if I enjoyed cycling I would upgrade in a year or two to a better brand...if not I wasn't out any serious cash.

I ended up with a Diamondback hybrid from a Dick's Sporting goods for around 250...had it "tuned up" at a local bike shop and it's been a great bike