chaadster, thank you for that reply, excellent answers and guidance. exactly what I was looking for. any recommendations on brands? I've heard good things about trek, giant, and schwinn. is it best to just see what my bike shop has?

and for the record, ontario canada is my place of residence. it can be quite cool and rainy or scorching hot. I would likely ride the bike until it becomes too cold to do so, around november and start again in march or april. fenders are a must.