I just got into cycling myself (foot injuries are keeping me from being able to run) and I'm glad I scoured CL...got a nice single-speed road bike for $100 with a trade for my beach cruiser.

I ride the crap out of that bike - around 40 miles every weekend. basically, from my house in Irvine then loop around Newport Back Bay...40 miles every weekend may not seem like much, but it is for me.

I personally didn't opt for a hybrid - didn't want to deal with gears and I wanted to be able to get some speed. Sure, the components might be crap on my bike and it might be painted day-glo green, but I enjoy it, and isn't that what a starter bike is all about?

Anyway, if you're just starting out - I'd personally get the cheapest bike that you can safely ride. Once you're comfortable or are in better shape, then you should trade it in for something else a little better. CL is great for this.