Yes, true, with a cheaper bike I can afford to add on the other stuff. (Though to save money for all important fenders, lights, and racks, I'll probably buy accessories that go on me off amazon.) My problem is a lot of the LBS in my area carries more expensive bikes. Not only is it a rich neighborhood, but it's also a serious biking town, signs everywhere, gangs of people with road bikes everywhere, people super serious about their biking. But, I will ask once I've saved up the money if they can order in something a little cheaper than an eight hundred dollar racing bike.

So, in my price range, Trek, Schwinn, and Giant are good, anyone else I should look out for? We also have an REI nearby, but I dunno if I trust them quite as much as a bike shop. (Though their bike girl was really helpful and knowledgeable.)